Budgeting Loan contact number: the Social Fund Enquiry Line
Budgeting Loans are handled by DWP's Social Fund. If you have applied, or want a paper form posted to you, the number to call is the Social Fund Enquiry Line. It is free to call, but it has short opening hours, so it helps to know when to ring and what to have ready.
Monday to Friday, 10am to 3pm. Free from mobiles and landlines.
Welsh language: 0800 169 0240 · Relay UK: 18001 then 0800 169 0140.
| Line | Number | Opening hours |
|---|---|---|
| Social Fund Enquiry Line (Budgeting Loans) | 0800 169 0140 | Mon–Fri, 10am–3pm |
| Welsh language | 0800 169 0240 | Mon–Fri, 10am–3pm |
| Universal Credit helpline (Budgeting Advance) | 0800 328 5644 | Mon–Fri, 8am–6pm |
What the Social Fund Enquiry Line can do
- make changes to an application you have already sent
- post you a paper application form (form SF500) — allow seven days for it to arrive
- answer questions about an application you are waiting on
The line does not take applications over the phone. You apply online, which is quicker, or by post.
When to call about a decision
Give your application time to be processed before chasing it. DWP asks you to wait:
- 14 days before phoning if you applied online
- 21 days before phoning if you applied by post
If you ring earlier, your application may simply not have been looked at yet. Do not apply a second time while you wait — it can slow things down.
Before you call
- your National Insurance number
- the date you applied and how (online or post)
- details of what the loan is for and any change you need to make
Because the line only opens from 10am to 3pm, calling soon after 10am or after lunch gives you the most time to get through on the same day. See our getting-through tips.
Getting the money
Once you accept an offer, the money is paid within 7 days if you accepted online, or within 21 days of your acceptance arriving by post. If you applied online it goes into the account your benefit is paid into; if you applied by post it goes into the account on your form. You get a text when it has been paid. If you accept by post, send the signed acceptance back in the envelope provided — not to your local Jobcentre Plus, which can delay it.
If you get Universal Credit
Universal Credit claimants cannot get a Budgeting Loan, so the Social Fund line cannot help you. Ask for a Budgeting Advance through your Universal Credit journal, your work coach, or the Universal Credit helpline on 0800 328 5644 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm). Amounts run from £100 to £812. See advances and hardship payments.
Who can apply for a Budgeting Loan
You need to have been on Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance or Pension Credit for the past six months. Full eligibility, amounts and repayments are on our Budgeting Loans guide.
Northern Ireland
Budgeting Loans in Northern Ireland are run separately. Check nidirect for the right contact details.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Budgeting Loan phone number?
The Social Fund Enquiry Line is 0800 169 0140, Monday to Friday, 10am to 3pm. It is free.
Can I apply for a Budgeting Loan by phone?
No. You apply online or with paper form SF500. The line can post you a form or change an application.
How long should I wait before chasing my application?
14 days if you applied online, or 21 days if you applied by post.
Is there a Welsh language line?
Yes: 0800 169 0240, same hours.
Last checked against official sources: 24 October 2026. Numbers, amounts and opening hours can change — if in doubt, check GOV.UK.