Sanctions & what to do

Lesson 10 of 13 in our free Benefits & Support guide: a 5-minute money game with the key points below.

This lesson is in the full version.

Free with a code from your uni, college, council, landlord or employer (worth £600/year). Lesson 1 of Benefits & Support is free for everyone.

Questions you'll answer

What's the FIRST formal step to challenge a sanction decision?

Myth: “Hardship payments during a sanction are a gift you never repay.” — They're usually recoverable — taken back from future UC once the sanction ends. Still, they can help you through.
Fact: “Telling your work coach in advance that you can't make an appointment can help.” — Yes. Contact them through your journal ASAP and keep evidence (like a hospital letter).
Fact: “Lots of sanction decisions change after being challenged.” — Challenging is worth it, especially with good reason and evidence. Free advisers can help you write it.
Ask for a Mandatory Reconsideration with evidence of the bus cancellation → Helpful now. This is how the decision gets reviewed.
Ask about a hardship payment → Helpful now. Can cover essentials. Remember it's usually repayable.
Contact a food bank or local crisis support → Helpful now. No shame — this is what they're there for.
Borrow from someone in a DM offering 'quick cash, no checks' → Makes it worse. Could be an illegal lender. Loan sharks are dangerous — avoid.
Stop opening UC journal messages → Makes it worse. You might miss appointments and deadlines. Stay in touch, even when it's stressful.