Money & Finances

Worrying About Money?

Follow these steps to find available financial advice and support in Edinburgh.

Step 1: Whats the problem?

Step 2: What are some options?

I suddenly have no money

Lost job/reduced hours
Lost money/unexpected expense
Disaster (e.g. flood or fire)
Relationship breakdown
Money stopped (e.g. failed a medical)
Sanctioned - see option 5

See options 1, 2, 5, and in Step 2

I am waiting on a benefit payment/decision

Made a new claim for benefit
Benefit payment is delayed
Waiting for a benefit decision

See options 1 and 4 in Step 2

My money doesn't stretch far enough

Deciding between food/fuel/mobile credit
Low income or zero hours contract
Statutory Sick Pay too low to cover costs
Not sure if eligible for support
Change of circumstance (e.g. new baby/bereavement/illness/left partner)

See option 2 in Step 2

I have debt

Rent or Council Tax arrears
Gas or electricity
Credit or store cards
Personal loans and overdrafts
Owe friends and family
Benefit repayments

See option 3 in Step 2

1. Scottish Welfare Fund

People on low incomes may be able to get a crisis grant from the Council.

This is a payment to help you cope during an emergency or disaster, or due to unexpected expenses. Crisis grants do not have to be paid back (not a loan).

3. Debt Advice

Debt can happen to anyone. Free advice and support can help you find ways to manage your debts and reduce how much you pay each month.

2. Maximise Your Income

Anyone who is struggling financially can get a benefit check and speak to an advisor for free and confidential advice.

A benefit check can ensure that you are receiving all the money you're entitled to, especially if your circumstances have changed recently. Speaking to an advisor could also help you find cheaper deals on things like gas and electricity and make sure you're not missing out on things like school clothing grants or free school meals.

4. Benefit Advance

If you have made a new claim for benefit and are in financial hardship while you wait for your first payment, you may be able to get an advance to afford things like rent or food. It's important to get advice before taking out an advance. Benefit advances must be paid back, and the money will be taken from your future benefit payments (a loan.)

5. Hardship Payment

If you have been sanctioned, you may be able to request a hardship payment from the Jobcentre. Hardship payments are not always paid immediately, and they're not available to everyone. Hardship payments of Universal Credit need to be paid back (a loan), but hardship payments of Job Seekers Allowance or Employment Support Allowance do not (not a loan).

6. Challenge a Decision

You can challenge a benefit decision if your benefit has been stopped / sanctioned / reduced / refused or you have been overpaid. Most benefit decisions need to be challenged within one month.