Recommendation 26

Some people in financial distress during the wait for their first payment can face a difficult choice between using their Advance to pay their housing costs, or to cover other essential costs, such as food or heating. No one should find themselves in arrears—or facing eviction—during this time. We recommend that anyone claiming an Advance should be given the option, at the outset, of having the housing element of the Advance paid directly to their landlord. This would ensure that claimants’ housing costs are covered during the wait for their first payment, and that they will not face the risk of falling into arrears or eviction as a result.