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Low Income Support

Budgeting Loans

A Budgeting Loan can help you pay for essential things like furniture, clothes, rent deposits, or moving costs if you've been on certain benefits.

Monthly Amount
£100 to £812

Eligibility Criteria

You may be eligible for Budgeting Loans if:

  • You've been on Income Support, JSA, ESA or Pension Credit for at least 6 months
  • You owe less than £1,500 on Budgeting Loans

How to Claim

Apply using form SF500 from Jobcentre Plus or online.

Claim on GOV.UK

Quick Info

Category

Low Income Support

Amount

£100 to £812

Related Benefits

Other low income support

View All Benefits

Key Facts About Budgeting Loans

  • Rates shown are for the 2025/26 tax year (April 2025 onwards)
  • Eligibility may depend on your income, savings, and circumstances
  • Payments are made monthly or as a lump sum

Tips for Claiming

  • 1.Gather all required documents before starting your application (ID, proof of address, bank details)
  • 2.Keep copies of everything you submit and note down reference numbers
  • 3.Claim as early as possible - most benefits cannot be backdated
  • 4.If you're refused, you have the right to request a Mandatory Reconsideration and then appeal

More About Budgeting Loans

Budgeting Loans is a UK government benefit designed to provide financial support for low income support. A Budgeting Loan can help you pay for essential things like furniture, clothes, rent deposits, or moving costs if you've been on certain benefits.

The current amount for Budgeting Loans is £100 to £812. This rate is set by the government and applies from April 2025.

Who administers Budgeting Loans?

Budgeting Loans is administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). You can apply through GOV.UK or contact the relevant helpline for assistance.

Can I claim Budgeting Loans alongside other benefits?

Whether you can claim Budgeting Loans alongside other benefits depends on your circumstances. Some benefits cannot be claimed together, while others are specifically designed to be claimed alongside your main benefit. Check GOV.UK or speak to a benefits adviser for guidance specific to your situation.

Use our salary calculator to understand your overall income, including how benefits might supplement your earnings from employment.

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