Step 6 - be organised

We can help!

Use Advicenow's free Tracker Tool. It helps you to keep records and sends you reminders when you have to take action. Advicenow Tracker Tool

Keep all the letters you receive, and record everything you do to solve the problem. Write down who you spoke to, what they said, what you or they were going to do next, and when by. If you’re on the phone it can be a good idea to make it obvious you are recording the conversation: ask them to spell names, and repeat back to them important details such as dates they have agreed to do something by.

HOT TIP!

Put a reminder in your mobile phone.

If you haven’t heard from them by the date you agreed, chase them up. If you provide documents or evidence, get a receipt and keep it safe.

Recording things properly can be vital to the success of your case, and if you need to get advice or go to court further down the line, the records you’ve made could be crucial.

Be Organised!
"My daughter was sick and in and out of hospital for a while and it played havoc with her benefit claims. Because she wasn't well, I had to try and sort them out for her. But I learnt something really useful. Now when I speak to someone at the benefits office, at the end of the conversation I always repeat anything they have agreed to do and ask how long they think it will take. If they say a week, I write it down and phone back a week later. I ask to speak to the same person and ask what the progress is. It stops me from being passed from person to person and nobody really dealing with my problem. If they don't want me to call back again, they'll solve it for me."
David, Ferryside