Your payment

If your application is successful you'll get £250, or a higher payment of £400 if you're the main carer of any children. This will come in one payment and you do not need to pay this money back.

What you can spend the payment on

The payment is intended to help with the costs of starting a new job.

It's up to you what you spend the money on and we do not need to see any receipts. You could use it for things like:

• travel costs, such as a bus or train pass
• lunches
• new clothes or a uniform
• childcare

The money is provided in one payment so you can spend it on things that might cost more, like a travel pass, if you need to.

If you need advice on budgeting, visit Citizens Advice Scotland.

How you'll be paid

Your payment can be sent direct to your bank or to someone else's. You'll need the bank account details.

If you want to be paid into someone else's account, you need to check they're happy with this before you put their details in this part of the form. You should also be sure you'll be able to access the money.

If you do not have a bank account, you can get Job Start Payment paid in the same way you are for other benefits. If you want to be paid into this you should apply either over the phone or by using the paper form.

To apply by phone, call Social Security Scotland free on 0800 182 2222. Lines are open 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.