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What to bring to your appointment

When you come for your appointment, it’s important that the adviser you speak to has as much information about your case as possible.

If you haven’t got everything that’s shown, don’t worry – bring as much as you can find.

If you don’t bring the necessary paperwork we will only be able to offer you limited advice based on the information you provide.

It can be important to get help as soon as possible because you might only have a short amount of time to take action.

Problems with benefits

You should bring:

  • all letters from government departments, such as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), for example, Jobcentre Plus, Pension Service, or your local council
  • any decision letters that you’re not happy with or want to challenge – this is essential
  • your national insurance number
  • proof of your income – for example, wage slips, benefit letters or tax credits
  • a bank statement – latest copy
  • details of any savings you have
  • your tenancy agreement or mortgage details

Welfare benefit check

If you would like an adviser to check that you are receiving all the benefits and tax credits you’re entitled to, bring the following information for everyone who lives in your home:

  • dates of birth
  • if employed or self-employed – number of hours worked
  • gross income from employment for the last tax year – April 6 to April 5 – a P60 form will provide this, or if self employed, last year’s accounts
  • gross income for this year – payslips or estimate if self-employed
  • if you are currently receiving benefits, bring all the benefit award letters
  • child care costs – details of childcare provider and how much you pay
  • investment income – details of investments and latest interest payments (bank statements may be the best way to show this)
  • tenancy agreement or current mortgage repayment details
  • council tax bill

Debt and money problems

You should bring:

  • details of your income – for example, wage slips, benefit letters or tax credits
  • a bank statement – latest copy
  • details of all those that you owe money to and how much – bring the latest statements and demands for payment
  • copies of any original loan agreements
  • copies of any court papers
  • details of your household expenditure including how much you spend on food, transport, phone and energy bills
  • copies of the latest correspondence you have received – for example, letters from bailiffs

Housing problems

You should bring:

  • your tenancy agreement and any letters from your landlord – if you’re renting
  • your mortgage details – if you have a mortgage
  • any court papers
  • title deeds – if you own your home
  • proof of your income – for example, wage slips, benefit letters or tax credits

Employment problems

You should bring:

  • a copy of your employment contract
  • details of any disciplinary, grievance or dismissal issues
  • any recent letters from your employer
  • your staff handbook, if you have one
  • a copy of employment tribunal applications – if you have made any
  • proof of your income – for example, wage slips, benefit letters or tax credits

Family and personal issues

You should bring:

  • any paperwork or letters relating to the issue
  • any court documents or legal agreements
  • proof of your income – for example, wage slips, benefit letters or tax credits
  • a copy of your divorce papers

Consumer problems

You should bring:

  • full details of the goods or services causing the problem
  • copies of any contracts or credit agreements
  • any recent letters about the problem
  • proof of purchase – such as receipt or credit card slip
  • proof of your income – for example, wage slips, benefit letters or tax credits

Immigration or asylum problems

You should bring:

  • all your letters from the Home Office
  • your passport and details of any visas or permits
  • proof of your income or NASS support – for example, wage slips, benefit letters or tax credits

Other problems

You should bring any paperwork, letters or other correspondence relating to the issue.