Collection

Deductions from benefit: guidance for creditors

Guidance for creditors – for example, utility suppliers and landlords – on how the deductions from benefit scheme works.

• From: Department for Work and Pensions
• Published: 1 September 2009
• Last updated: 6 May 2021 — See all updates

If you get benefit payments and need help to pay your bills (including rent, services charges, fuel or water bills) read Help paying bills using your benefits.

Guidance for creditors

• How the deductions from benefit scheme works: guidance for creditors or suppliers
  • 24 February 2025
  • Guidance
• Deductions from benefit: how creditors can apply
  • 12 September 2024
  • Guidance
• Stop and restart deductions from benefits under the Debt Respite Scheme (‘Breathing Space’)
  • 6 May 2021
  • Guidance

Universal Credit cases

Rent arrears

For rent arrears in Universal Credit cases, use the landlord request form on the Universal Credit and rented housing page.

Other arrears

• Applications for 'third party' deductions from Universal Credit
  • 2 March 2025
  • Form

Published 1 September 2009

Last updated 6 May 2021 + show all updates

1. 6 May 2021

   Added guidance on how to stop and restart deductions from benefits under the Debt Respite Scheme (‘Breathing Space’).

2. 1 September 2009

   First published.