Big purchases, UC review worries

ellie_rsg

hello

i needed to purchase a new computer today because my old one died on me. i decided to get it now due to black friday sales and also as a christmas present to myself. i had most of the cost saved (under 1k) which i know isnt a problem. and then i added the rest to get it, turned out over 1k in total. this is because of black friday i wanted to get a slightly better computer so it lasts me many years..

im aware of the current reviews recently where UC asks people to send in their ID and 4 months worth of bank statements. i have nothing over 6k and nothing to hide. i now have 0 savings anyway.. nothing in my paypal, i just use paypal to purchase because my card is already saved on there so i find it easier than finding my card and popping the details in. ill be happy to show paypal and my bank statements.

my question is, should i be worried about being questioned or in trouble for this purchase? i saved up most of it myself which took a long time. i had to transfer it from my savings account (like mentioned it was under 1k (approx 850)) to my main account to then purchase. will i be in trouble for spending my money on this and for this amount? im worrying myself sick that ive done something wrong. ive never been good at managing my money so to even be able to save something was really hard to me. i also get very impulsive due to some of my illnesses.. and i worry i shouldnt have bought this even though i needed it for many reasons, and for long term.

i have nothing to hide.. i just worry ill get questioned for spending my money on this. any advice is helpful. i have really bad anxiety especially around UC and money. im often too scared to use my money unless i really need it. and im trying to get over that fear.

has anyone done some big purchases and had it mentioned in their review? how did it go? what did they ask you?

i haven't had my review yet.. but i expect it's going to be soon and im not looking forward to it :((

Emilee

You have not done anything wrong and they are unlikely to ask about it. The checks are to meant to be to see if claimants have over £6,000 that they have not declared.
If they do ask, you would just explain exactly as you have here. You needed a new computer and found one that suited your needs.

As you had less than £6,000 it does not affect your claim anyway.

Jimm_Scope

Hey @ellie_rsg, as Emilee mentions they are just looking for claimants who have over £6000 in claims, or have not declared income they are receiving. Even if you were over £6000 buying a PC for over £1000 would not be considered deprivation of capital. So you are entirely fine here!

Do you mind me asking what PC parts you got? I love hearing about other peoples PC builds. I build my own PCs and need to get a new one this year, my current PC is nearing 7 years old! Sorry if you aren't a huge PC person I just find it interesting 😋

worried33

That wont be an issue in my opinion. Your total savings were below 6k. Anything you buy is your business. Their concern is capital and income.

Kimmy87

They do ask about outgoings during these checks, I had many questions about mine and none about money IN from eBay sales.

As Emilee advised, just say you needed a new computer and the one you purchased met your needs, is all you have to say.