The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is offering Universal Credit claimants up to £812 through a Budgeting Advance to help with essential one-off costs. This payment is designed for those in financial hardship who need assistance with specific expenses.
How Much Can You Get?
The amount you receive depends on your circumstances:
- Single claimants: up to £348
- Couples: up to £464
- Claimants with children: up to £812
The minimum amount you can borrow is £100. The exact sum is based on your need.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Budgeting Advance, you must meet one of the following conditions:
- Have been receiving Universal Credit, Employment and Support Allowance, or Pension Credit for at least six months, or
- Need the money to help start a new job or stay in work.
You are not eligible if:
- You have earned more than £2,600 (£3,600 for couples) in the past six months, or
- You have not repaid any previous Budgeting Advance loans (only one loan is allowed at a time).
What Can the Advance Be Used For?
The DWP specifies eight strict purposes for the payment:
- Furniture
- Household items such as a cooker, washing machine, or vacuum cleaner
- Essential items for your family, including mobility aids or child safety products
- A TV, in some circumstances
- Clothes or footwear
- Repairs or security for your home
- Funeral expenses
- A rent (tenancy) deposit or removal costs, if you are moving house
The advance cannot be used for ongoing costs like food, household bills (gas or electricity), rent, or paying off debts.
How to Apply
You can apply for a Budgeting Advance through:
- Updating your journal in your Universal Credit account
- Asking a Universal Credit contact at your local jobcentre or your work coach
- Calling the Universal Credit helpline
Repayment Terms
The advance is repaid through your Universal Credit payments, typically over 24 months. Repayments begin from your next Universal Credit payment.
