If benefits are your only income
Scottish guidance says a trust deed is not available on the basis of benefit-only income. Social security benefits cannot be used to fund a trust deed contribution.
If this describes you, ask a Scottish debt adviser to consider the other options rather than trying to create an apparent surplus by cutting necessary expenditure.
If you receive earnings and benefits
The trustee needs to assess the household finances while respecting the restrictions on the source of contributions. A combined income total does not mean every part of it can be paid into the arrangement.
Explain each income source separately. Include benefit award notices, payslips and information about who receives the money. If a benefit is intended to meet particular needs, explain the associated costs too.
Make essential needs visible
Before an advice appointment, list costs that a simple household estimate may miss: care, disability-related transport, extra heating, special dietary needs or necessary support.
Do not assume the adviser will infer these from a benefit name. Explain the actual expenditure and provide evidence where requested. Ask how it has been reflected in the assessment.
If your income changes during a trust deed
A change from employment to benefits, a benefit decision or reduced working hours should be reported promptly. Ask for an assessment of the new circumstances rather than continuing an unaffordable payment without discussion.
The annual review guide explains the evidence to organise. If a payment is already at risk, follow the payment difficulty steps instead of waiting.
The worksheet is not a benefits assessment
Our budget worksheet shows a simple income-minus-costs balance. It does not decide which income is legally available for a contribution or calculate benefit entitlement. Selecting the benefits-only option displays that limitation even if the arithmetic shows a positive balance.
Bring the figures to a free Scottish debt adviser for a complete assessment. You can seek help without committing to a trust deed.
Sources & further reading
Sources checked for this guide on 6 September 2026. Follow the original guidance for full detail.
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