Crisis loans

You can get a crisis loan if you are aged 16 or over and you need money in an emergency. You do NOT have to be getting specific benefits to apply for a crisis loan - but you do have to show that you will be able to pay back the loan in the future.

You can make an application by telephone on 0845 6036967, or complete form SF401, which can also be downloaded from www.direct.gov.uk.  You should get a decision on your application the same day.  

Sometimes, staff in jobcentre plus office will tell you that you cannot get a crisis loan in your situation and that there is little point in applying. You should insist on making an application and getting a written decision on your claim.  

You can ask the social fund officer to look again at the decision if you are refused a crisis loan.

Note: The administration of crisis loans (CL) and community care grants (CCG) is to transfer over to local authorities (LAs) in 2013.

For more information click on extra money from the social fund on the right hand side of the page.