Set deadline for HSS claims with guidance on late applications

Post Office agrees that closure of the scheme represents an important milestone in providing overall closure for postmasters and we welcome the opportunity to do so. Nonetheless, we are and have always been sensitive to the difficulties experienced by many postmasters in formulating claims, both practical and emotional. After careful thought, and in consultation with DBT, Post Office suggested that a slightly longer timeframe for final applications to the scheme would be in line with good practice on other remediation schemes as well as giving more notice to potential applicants. Taking account of the very busy Christmas period for current postmasters and the sensitivities at this time for all who have yet to claim, we have agreed with DBT that 31 January 2026 is an appropriate timescale for closure.

DBT broadly accepts this recommendation and agrees with the need for finality. However, postmasters who have yet to submit their claim will need sufficient notice of the closure date. The Post Office will send a reminder letter to claimants who have yet to respond, to warn them of the closure date. The Post Office will issue those letters shortly. It will close the HSS to new claims on 31 January 2026. The department will work with the Post Office on the practicalities of closing the scheme, including ensuring that postmasters are adequately notified of the closure date and receive the information and support they need to make any outstanding claims ahead of closure. There may be some exceptional cases that may miss the deadline of 31 January, for good reasons. DBT will work with the Post Office to publish clear guidance on the processes for any such cases received after the closure date, including any criteria for these exceptions.

DBT broadly accepted this recommendation and agreed with the need for finality. The HSS was closed to new applications on 31 January 2026, with notice provided in advance of this date. The Post Office sent a reminder letter to claimants who had yet to respond, to reiterate the closure date. There may be some exceptional cases where claimants may have missed the deadline of 31 January for good reasons. DBT have worked with the Post Office to agree how to respond to applications received after the deadline. Guidance has been published on the Post Office website for claimants.

Sir Wyn recommended that the Horizon shortfall scheme should close on 27 November 2025. We agree with Sir Wyn that there does need to be finality. However, having consulted the Horizon Compensation Advisory Board, we have decided to provide more time for vulnerable claimants to consider applying to the scheme. To help with this, as recommended by the Public Accounts Committee, we will ensure that postmasters are sent letters informing them that the scheme will soon be closing. The Post Office, with the Government’s blessing, has decided to close the scheme to new applications on 31 January 2026. They will also close the suspension remuneration review scheme to new applications on the same date.

Business and Trade Select Committee heard the HSS would close to new claims on 31 January 2026, a later date than specified in this recommendation. Over 4,000 claimants were still awaiting final settlement across all schemes as of January 2026.