Citizens advice

What to bring on your local Citizens Advice visit

When you visit your local Citizens Advice, it's important that the adviser you speak to has as much information about your case as possible.

If you don't bring the necessary paperwork with you - you might have to come back another time. This means it could take you longer to get the help you need.

This page gives you an idea of the kind of information it's useful to bring with you. If you haven't got everything that's shown, don't worry - bring as much as you can find.

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

all letters from government departments, such as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) e.g. Jobcentre Plus, Pension Service, or the local authority
decision letters that you are not happy with or wish to challenge - this is essential
your national insurance number
proof of your income - wage slips, benefit letters, tax credits
bank statement - latest copy
details of any savings
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

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

Housing problems

tenancy agreement, letters from your landlord - if you're renting
mortgage details - if you have a mortgage
any court papers
title deeds - if you own your home
proof of your income - wage slips, benefit letters, tax credits.

Employment problems

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

Family and personal issues

any paperwork or letters relating to the issue
court documents or legal agreements
proof of your income - wage slips, benefit letters, tax credits
copy of divorce papers.

Consumer problems

full details of the goods or services causing the problem
copy 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 - wage slips, benefit letters, tax credits.

Immigration or asylum problems

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