Financial help at uni

[Budlet]

My son is (hopefully) going to university in September. My husband has been made redundant and we now have absolutely no income apart from some part time work which I do, bringing in about �5000 a year. I have applied for financial help but I have to give proof of income for tax year 2008 - 2009 which was more than �30,000. This seems totally irrelevant - last year my husband was earning, this year he isn't. What has last year got to do with now! We might not be able to afford for him to go to Uni now. Has anyone been through this, and can they advise me what I can do. Thanks

[factor-fiction]

Yes, I recall there is a provision for if you think your income will change significantly. Just ring the SLC or go on their website

[Budlet]

Thanks factor30. It really hacks me off when we have worked and paid tax for years and never asked for anything. Now, when we need help for our son, it isn't there. Maybe I should become an MP!

[Ermieox]

My son is hoping to go to University next year and has been told that as we have a low household income he will be able to get help with fees. Your son should speak to his further education contact at school or college and they will give him all the information he needs.

[Budlet]

I have just got off the phone to someone at directgov who told me that I need to provide proof of income for 2007-2008 but also download a current year income assessment form as well. He said they would take into account earnings for the current year 2009-2010. Why they need to go back to 2007 is crazy!

[lillyme]

Are you now on benefits ie Working Tax Credit ? If you are tell the Student Loan Company this and that your income has dropped - it has to be done soon as possible .The student will get a full loan for Fees plus if away from home a full living allowance.Oh and check the Bursery payments out too.