Discover How Eligible Benefit Recipients can Tap into a £812 Payment
Many individuals who receive certain benefits are just starting to find out that they may be entitled to a single payment of £812. This windfall comes courtesy of the government’s Budgeting Loan program, designed to assist households with low income grappling with daily expenses.
It can serve as a lifeline for those with urgent bills to pay or for those between jobs. This loan is cheaper and much more manageable than resorting to high-interest payday loans or doorstep lenders.
The Lowdown on Budgeting Loans
Budgeting Loans are interest-free cash advances from the government, and you only need to repay the exact amount you borrow. These loans can be a godsend in emergencies, like needing to replace a faulty boiler.
Those on Universal Credit can avail themselves of a Budgeting Advance, which operates similarly. The repayment of this loan is done via deductions from your future monthly benefit payments, so you’ll need to plan accordingly.
Eligibility hinges on you being a recipient of specific benefits for a minimum of six months. However, a lot of people are just becoming aware that they might be eligible if they’re on Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
The qualifying benefits include Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, and Pension Credit.
The minimum loan is £100, but depending on your circumstances, you could receive:
- £348 if you’re single
- £464 if you have a partner
- £812 if you or your partner claim child benefit
Your eligibility also depends on your ability to repay the loan, your savings, and if you are repaying an existing Budgeting Loan or Crisis Loan.
Using the Budgeting Loan
A Budgeting Loan can cover a wide range of expenses, including home furniture, clothes, rent, moving costs, home improvements, UK travel costs, job-related expenses, maternity and funeral costs, and repayment of certain loans.
Repayment Arrangements
The Budgeting Loan is interest-free, so you only need to repay the borrowed amount. The repayments are taken directly from your benefits, and the amount depends on your income, including any benefits, and what you can afford. Typically, the loan must be repaid within two years (104 weeks).
Application Procedure
The application can be submitted online or in paper form. Visit the government website at https://www.gov.uk/budgeting-help-benefits/how-to-apply and follow the given instructions.
For Universal Credit claimants, you can ask for a Budgeting Advance via your Universal Credit journal, call 0800 328 5644, or visit your nearest Jobcentre.
Coping with Debt
If debt is becoming overwhelming, consider reaching out to charities and organizations such as National Debtline, Business Debtline (for self-employed individuals), Step Change, or Citizens Advice.
They can provide personalized help and guide you through options such as debt management plans, individual voluntary arrangements, bankruptcy, or debt relief orders.