The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is offering financial assistance of up to £812 to help low-income households cover urgent expenses. The funds can be deposited into your account on the same day your application is approved, providing timely support for end-of-year costs.
Financial Support for Eligible Households Receiving Key Benefits
This assistance is available to households that have been receiving one of five key benefits for at least six months. The eligible benefits include:
- Universal Credit.
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance.
- Income Support.
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance.
- Pension Credit.
The amount you can borrow depends on your household situation:
- Up to £348 for a single person,
- Up to £464 for a couple,
- Up to £812 for families with children.
What Can This Money Be Used For?
Known as a budgeting advance for Universal Credit and a budgeting loan for other benefits, this funding is designed to cover essential or emergency costs. Eligible expenses include:
- Replacement of white goods (fridge, washing machine, etc.),
- Purchase of furniture or clothing,
- Work-related costs (e.g., uniforms or tools necessary for employment),
- Repair bills, travel expenses, or maternity costs,
- Funeral charges, new rent deposits, or moving expenses.
In some cases, the DWP may request proof of spending (such as receipts) to ensure the funds were used for the stated purpose.
Support Options for Universal Credit and Other Benefit Claimants
For Universal Credit Claimants:
- Earnings in the past six months must not exceed £2,600 (or £3,600 for couples).
- You must not have an outstanding loan of a similar nature.
For Other Benefits:
- Loans will not be approved if you already owe more than £1,500 or are involved in industrial action.
How to Apply?
The application process varies depending on your benefit:
- For Universal Credit:
- Apply through your online account,
- Visit a Jobcentre.
- Or call the helpline at 0800 328 5644.
- For other qualifying benefits:
- Apply online via the official DWP website.
- Or download and submit a specific application form.
Other Available Advances
Depending on your circumstances, additional types of advances may be available:
- A new claim advance for those who have recently applied for Universal Credit and need funds to bridge the five-week wait for their first payment.
- A change of circumstances advance for those whose benefit entitlement has increased, allowing up to half of the additional amount to be paid upfront.
| Type of Advance | Maximum Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Budgeting advance/loan | £812 | Emergency costs, white goods, etc. |
| New claim advance | Varies | Bridging the waiting period for benefits. |
| Change of circumstances advance | Varies | Early access to increased benefit entitlement. |
The program provides financial assistance to low-income households, allowing them to address unexpected expenses. Repayment is facilitated through deductions from future benefit payments.
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It would be nice for Christmas that £812 pound