DWP Contact Number for Budgeting Loan: How to Apply and Get Support?
Are you struggling with unexpected expenses and wondering how to get financial support from the DWP?
If you’re on certain benefits and need extra help covering essential costs, a budgeting loan could be the solution.
Provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), this interest-free loan can help with emergency expenses, household items, and more.
But how do you apply? And what is the DWP contact number for a budgeting loan?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the application process, eligibility criteria, repayment details, and how to contact the DWP for assistance.
What Is the DWP Contact Number for Budgeting Loan?
If you need to apply for a budgeting loan or have questions about your application, you can contact the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Social Fund Enquiry Line for assistance.
DWP Contact Number for Budgeting Loan Applications and Enquiries
- Telephone: 0800 169 0140
- Textphone (for hearing or speech impairments): 0800 169 0286
- Relay UK (for those who cannot hear or speak on the phone): Dial 18001 then 0800 169 0140
- British Sign Language (BSL) Video Relay Service: Available for those using a computer, tablet, or mobile device. More information on how to use the service is available on GOV.UK.
- Welsh Language Support: 0800 169 0240
Opening Hours:
The Social Fund Enquiry Line operates at the following times:
- Monday to Friday: 10 AM – 3 PM
- Welsh Language Line: 8 AM – 5 PM
- Closed on weekends and public holidays
What Can You Use the DWP Contact Number For?
By calling the DWP Budgeting Loan helpline, you can:
- Get help applying for a budgeting loan.
- Request a paper application form (SF500) if you prefer to apply by post.
- Check the status of an existing application.
- Make changes to your application if you provided incorrect details.
- Ask about repayments if you are struggling to pay back the loan.
- Appeal a decision if your loan application was rejected or you disagree with the amount offered.
When Should You Call the DWP Helpline?
If you have applied for a budgeting loan and are waiting for a decision:
- Wait 14 days before calling if you applied online.
- Wait 21 days before calling if you applied by post.
The DWP processes applications in the order they are received, and calling too early may not provide any new updates.
Alternative Ways to Get Budgeting Loan Support
If you are unable to get through on the phone, you can also:
- Visit the GOV.UK website to apply online or check eligibility.
- Visit your local Jobcentre Plus office for in-person support.
- Use the DWP BSL Video Relay Service if you communicate using British Sign Language.
If you are in Northern Ireland, you must apply through NI Direct, as the process differs from England, Scotland, and Wales.
For the fastest response, it is recommended to call the DWP Budgeting Loan helpline during non-peak hours, such as early in the morning
What Is a Budgeting Loan?
A budgeting loan is a government-provided, interest-free loan designed to help people on certain benefits cover essential costs. It is part of the DWP Social Fund and is available to claimants who meet specific criteria.
What Can a Budgeting Loan Be Used For?
A budgeting loan can help pay for:
- Furniture and household items (e.g., beds, sofas, kitchen appliances).
- Rent deposits or advance rent payments.
- Essential clothing and footwear.
- Moving costs or travel expenses.
- Costs related to starting a new job.
- Repaying other DWP loans.
Since this is an interest-free loan, you only pay back what you borrow, making it an affordable way to manage financial difficulties.
Who Is Eligible for a Budgeting Loan?
To qualify for a budgeting loan, you must meet specific eligibility criteria set by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
These loans are designed to help individuals receiving certain benefits manage essential expenses.
Basic Eligibility Criteria
To apply for a budgeting loan, you must have been receiving one or more of the following benefits continuously for the past six months:
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Pension Credit
If you recently transitioned from Universal Credit to Pension Credit, the time spent claiming Universal Credit will count toward the six-month eligibility period.
Who Is Not Eligible for a Budgeting Loan?
Certain individuals do not qualify for a budgeting loan, including those who:
- Currently receive Universal Credit – Instead, you may be eligible for a Budgeting Advance under the Universal Credit scheme.
- Receive New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) or New Style Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) – These benefits do not count towards budgeting loan eligibility.
- Are involved in industrial action – If you are on strike, walkout, or lockout, you are not eligible to apply.
- Owe more than £1,500 in total for previous Budgeting Loans or Crisis Loans – If you already have outstanding loan repayments above this threshold, you will not be approved for a new loan.
If you live in Northern Ireland, the application process is different, and you must apply through NI Direct rather than GOV.UK.
How to Apply for a Budgeting Loan?
There are three ways to apply for a budgeting loan: online, by post, or by phone. Applying online is the fastest and most efficient method.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
- Before applying, review the eligibility criteria to ensure you qualify. If you receive Universal Credit, you cannot apply for a budgeting loan.
- Instead, you should consider a Budgeting Advance, which serves a similar purpose for Universal Credit claimants.
Step 2: Choose Your Application Method
Apply Online (Fastest Method)
Applying online is the quickest way to receive a decision. When you apply, you can choose to get your decision via:
- Text message
- Letter (this takes the longest)
If you choose email or text message, you can also accept the loan offer online, which speeds up the process significantly.
Apply Using a Paper Form
If you prefer to apply by post, you will need to fill out the SF500 form. You can:
- Download and print the SF500 form from GOV.UK.
- Request a paper form by calling the Social Fund Enquiry Line. Allow 7 days for it to arrive.
- Complete and return the form via post to Freepost DWP Budgeting Loans.
This method takes longer than applying online.
Apply by Phone
If you need assistance completing the application or need to make changes after submission, you can contact the Social Fund Enquiry Line:
- Telephone: 0800 169 0140
- Textphone: 0800 169 0286
- Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 10 AM – 3 PM
If you live in Northern Ireland, you will need to follow a different process through NI Direct.
Step 3: Wait for a Decision
After submitting your application, you will receive a decision within 7 to 21 days, depending on how you applied.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Budgeting Loan?
The time it takes to get a budgeting loan depends on how you apply and how you receive your decision.
| Application Method | Processing Time | Decision Notification Method |
| Online (Email/Text Decision) | 7 days | Email or text message |
| Online (Letter Decision) | Up to 21 days | Letter |
| By Post | Up to 21 days | Letter |
Accepting the Loan Offer
Once your application is approved, you must accept the loan offer before the funds are released. How you accept depends on how you applied:
- Online Applicants – Follow the instructions in the email or text message to accept your loan offer online.
- Postal Applicants – Sign and return page 4 of the acceptance letter in the pre-paid envelope provided. Ensure the return address is visible to avoid delays.
Receiving Your Money
After accepting the loan offer, the funds will be deposited into your bank account:
- 7 days if you accept online.
- 21 days if you accept by post.
If you applied online, the money will be sent to the same bank, building society, or credit union account where your benefits are paid.
If you applied by post, the payment will be made to the account specified in your application form.
You will receive a text message confirmation once the money has been transferred.
Checking the Status of Your Application
If you have not received a decision within the expected time frame:
- Wait 14 days before calling if you applied online.
- Wait 21 days before calling if you applied by post.
For application updates, call the Social Fund Enquiry Line at 0800 169 0140.
How Much Can You Borrow?
The amount you can borrow depends on your household situation, financial status, and ability to repay the loan.
| Household Situation | Minimum Loan | Maximum Loan |
| Single | £100 | £348 |
| Couple | £100 | £464 |
| With Children | £100 | £812 |
Factors That Affect Loan Amount
Your loan amount is determined by several factors:
- Your ability to repay the loan – The DWP assesses your financial situation to determine how much you can afford to borrow and repay.
- Your existing debts – If you are already repaying a Budgeting Loan or Crisis Loan, this will impact how much additional money you can borrow.
- Your savings – If you have more than £1,000 in savings (£2,000 if you or your partner are over 63), you may be eligible for a lower loan amount or be denied.
How Will the Loan Be Paid?
- The budgeting loan payment will be sent to the same account where your benefits are paid.
- If you want to receive the loan in a different account, you must update your benefit payment details before applying.
- If you apply using the paper form, you can specify a different account, but this may delay the process.
Budgeting Loan Repayment Process
Repaying a budgeting loan is straightforward, as repayments are automatically deducted from your benefits. Since this is an interest-free loan, you only need to repay the exact amount you borrowed, making it a manageable form of financial assistance.
How Are Budgeting Loan Repayments Made?
- Automatic Deduction from Benefits: If you continue receiving benefits, repayments will be automatically deducted from your weekly or monthly payments.
- Fixed Repayment Period: You have up to 104 weeks (2 years) to repay the full loan amount.
- Repayment Amounts: The DWP determines how much will be deducted based on your financial circumstances. The deduction amount varies depending on your income and expenses.
What Happens If You Stop Receiving Benefits?
If you stop receiving benefits before fully repaying your budgeting loan, you will need to make alternative arrangements to continue repaying the outstanding balance.
- The DWP will contact you with repayment instructions.
- You may need to set up a direct debit, standing order, or other payment method to continue repayments.
- If you are unable to make payments, you should contact the Social Fund Enquiry Line to discuss alternative repayment options.
Can You Change Your Repayment Plan?
If you are struggling with repayments, you can request a lower repayment amount by contacting the DWP Budgeting Loan team.
They may allow you to make smaller payments over a longer period, depending on your financial situation.
If you fail to make repayments and do not contact the DWP to discuss alternative arrangements, you could face debt recovery actions, which may include deductions from future benefits or other enforcement measures.
What If You Disagree with a Budgeting Loan Decision?
If your budgeting loan application is rejected or you are offered a lower amount than expected, you have the right to request a reconsideration of the decision.
When Should You Appeal a Budgeting Loan Decision?
You can challenge the decision if:
- Your application was denied and you believe this was incorrect.
- You were offered a lower loan amount than expected.
- You believe there was an error in processing your application.
How to Request a Reconsideration?
To appeal a budgeting loan decision, you need to write to the DWP at the address provided on your decision letter.
Your request should include:
- Your full name and National Insurance number.
- Your address and contact details.
- A detailed explanation of why you believe the decision is incorrect.
Your request must be submitted within 28 days of the date on your decision letter.
What Happens After You Request a Reconsideration?
The DWP will review your case and send a new decision letter explaining whether the original decision has been changed or remains the same.
If you are still unhappy with the outcome, you can escalate the matter by requesting a review from the Independent Case Examiner. However, this process can take longer, so it is recommended to resolve the issue with the DWP first.
Other Support Available
If you do not qualify for a budgeting loan or need additional financial assistance, there are other support options available.
Universal Credit Budgeting Advance
If you receive Universal Credit, you cannot apply for a budgeting loan. Instead, you may be eligible for a Budgeting Advance, which serves a similar purpose.
- The minimum advance is £100 and the maximum amount varies depending on your circumstances.
- Repayments are deducted from future Universal Credit payments over a set period.
- To apply, contact your Universal Credit work coach or use your online Universal Credit account.
Local Council and Jobcentre Plus Support
Many local councils offer emergency financial assistance for individuals struggling with urgent costs. These may include:
- Local welfare schemes
- Housing assistance grants
- Crisis support for essential living expenses
You can check with your local council or visit a Jobcentre Plus office to find out what support is available in your area.
Discretionary Assistance Fund (Wales)
In Wales, individuals facing financial hardship may apply for support from the Discretionary Assistance Fund (DAF). This fund provides:
- Emergency assistance payments for essential costs.
- Support for those at risk of homelessness or extreme hardship.
Applications for the DAF can be submitted online or through local support services.
Crisis Grants and Community Care Grants (Scotland)
In Scotland, financial support is available through Crisis Grants and Community Care Grants, which provide:
- Immediate financial help for those in crisis situations.
- Support for individuals moving into new housing who need help covering essential costs.
Applications are handled by local councils, and eligibility criteria vary depending on individual circumstances.
Discretionary Support or Short-term Benefit Advance (Northern Ireland)
If you are in Northern Ireland, financial assistance is available through:
- Discretionary Support Grants and Loans, which offer emergency financial relief.
- Short-term Benefit Advances, which help cover living costs while waiting for a benefit payment.
Applications for these support schemes can be made through NI Direct or local welfare offices.
Conclusion
A budgeting loan from the DWP is a valuable financial aid for those receiving certain benefits, providing a way to cover essential expenses without the burden of interest charges.
However, it is important to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria and understand the repayment terms before applying.
If you have questions about your application, repayment difficulties, or need additional financial support, contact the DWP Social Fund Enquiry Line at 0800 169 0140.
Additionally, other support schemes, including Universal Credit Budgeting Advances, local council grants, and discretionary support funds, may be available to those in need.
By exploring all available options, you can find the best solution to manage financial challenges and maintain financial stability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I contact the DWP about a budgeting loan?
You can call the DWP Social Fund Enquiry Line at 0800 169 0140 for help with applications, status updates, and repayments.
How long does it take to receive a budgeting loan?
If you apply online and choose email or text notifications, you may receive a decision within 7 days. If applying by post, it can take up to 21 days.
Can I apply for a budgeting loan if I receive Universal Credit?
No, if you receive Universal Credit, you are not eligible for a budgeting loan. Instead, you can apply for a Budgeting Advance through your Universal Credit account.
How much can I borrow with a budgeting loan?
The loan amount depends on your circumstances: up to £348 for a single person, £464 for a couple, and £812 if you have children.
What happens if I cannot repay my budgeting loan?
If you are struggling with repayments, contact the DWP helpline to discuss lower repayment options. The DWP may adjust deductions based on your financial situation.
