No advance allowed on LCWRA

Liberty73

Hi
I was assessed as LCWRA entitled in August and I am due my first element payment in October. I requested an advance of UC but was told as I earnt in June I was not entitled to any advances. I was then advised I may be eligible for a change of circumstance advance if I paid off a previous one, I paid it but was then advised again I was not eligible. Meanwhile I have been using foodbanks and unable to attend medical appointments, I have also so regrettably given my pet cat to another home as I cannot afford him now.
I am in dire need of help, I am trying grants, charities etc but I am no experiencing very low moods due to my financial situation.
Any advise available please 

bg844

Unfortunately that is correct, paying off an existing advance never guarantees another one. If they have said they can’t give you another advance it means the system automatically has refused this.

What other benefits do you claim and do you rent too?

bg844

Note to add, have you received any help off the household support fund?

Liberty73

Hi

I have had food vouchers from my LA , household support fund.I don't claim any other benefits , I have put in a PIP claim last week , so fingers crossed with that.
I thought I could get an advance just on my UC claim as I don't have any others outstanding at all.
I receive HB and CT benefit it's really food and bills that's causing major issues.
I have a progressive immunity issue so not eating fresh food all the time will not be helping me.
I am next paid UC on the 27th September, but that's two weeks away.Ive always worked up until I just can't manage it no more.

bg844

That's useful to know and great to hear you have received help previously, thanks. In terms of budgeting, if you are struggling to make ends meet then it is possible to receive your UC payment more frequently (2 or 4 payments a month instead of just the 1). If you feel this would help then leave a message under the 'payments' category on your journal explaining what difficulties you are facing and explain the impact on your ability to budget properly asking politely if you could receive more frequent payments. 

Please do note that this isn't guaranteed but is worth the ask should you think it would help you. 

It may also be useful for you to do a benefits calculation:
https://www.entitledto.co.uk/benefits-calculator/home/start

Liberty73

Thank you so much I didn't realize I could get payments more frequently which will really help! Thank you again !

Jimm_Scope

Hi @Liberty73, I'm really sorry to hear about your financial struggles. It's something I have also struggled with in the past and I know the stress and anxiety it can cause. I'm glad you are looking to get  more of what you are entitled to, I wish you luck in your PIP application.

I would check out the link that bg844 posted, you can calculate if there are anymore benefits you should be getting to help with your situation.

Regarding your bills and food, Scope to have an advice section on these two, as they are so important and such a vital issue with the current cost of living crisis. There is a specific energy support team who will help with your utility bills, you can read more about what they can provide, how they help and how  to apply for the support here.