Income Maximsation as a quick

winWhat’s on offer?

Sam Scotchbroo

k

Citizens AdviceCounty Durham

March 2017

What is ‘Income Maximsation?

❏ An appointment with an adviser to deal with maximising income can consist of energy related issues such as

Switching to cheaper gas and electricity

Energy efficiency improvements Energy saving suggestions Energy disputes

❏ We carry out holistic advice on additional areas such as benefits and managing debt and budgeting, reducing expenditure

Quick wins..❏ We carry out a full needs

assessment – holistic advice – what benefits can be claimed..

❏ We will look to see what outgoings can be reduced – reducing tariffs

❏ What grants etc are available – British Gas Trust Fund

❏ Energy Saving tips❏ Budgeting

What sort of issues might be discussed?

Can I get a better deal for my gas and electricity……with my current supplier?…by switching supplier?

What sort of issues might be discussed?

How are my choices affected by……being in debt to my supplier?…being a prepayment customer?…choosing cash/cheque or direct debit?…qualifying for Warm Home Discount?

What sort of issues might be discussed?

What benefits am I entitled to?What ways can I save money?Are there any grants or discounts available?

What sort of issues might be discussed?

Can I get help to pay off arrears to my fuel supplier?

What sort of issues might be discussed?

My supply is disconnected – help!

What sort of issues might be discussed?

Can elderly or disabled customers get any extra support from their fuel supplier?

What sort of issues might be discussed?

I think my meter is overcharging me, or there is a mistake on my bill.

What sort of issues might be discussed?

I haven’t had a bill for over a year – can they still charge me from that far back?

What sort of issues might be discussed?

My home is difficult to heat – can I get help to improve my insulation?

What sort of issues might be discussed?

I’ve heard about a Warm Home Discount worth £140. Do I qualify?

What sort of issues might be discussed?

My direct debit has been increased more than seems reasonable.

What sort of issues might be discussed?

My energy statement says I’m £400 in credit – can I get my money back?

How can we work together tosupport this advice work?

If attending home visits what to look for with fuel issues..

Case Studies …

Citizens Advice County Durham

Sam ScotchbrookSam.scotchbrook@cdcab.org.uk 0191 372 6704