www.iva.co.uk

Hi,

When I initially took out my IVA, I was paying £200 each month to my Mum, to cover my board. This covers all the utility bills, etc but not food. At the time, BE asked my Mum to submit a letter confirming the £200 was for my Board, no detailed breakdown was required.

I am now in my second year and haven't changed the £200 amount. Should utility bills continue to increase, I will really need to increase the amount I pay, as this is only fair.

Wanted some advise before I approach BE. None of the bills are in my name, so not sure what documentation they would require to justifiy the increase in board.

I'm sure one of the experts will be along shortly to give you their advice but what I would do if I were in your shoes so to speak is either write to them now or wait until your review submit your I&E showing the increased board costs and kindly ask you mum if she would do another letter to BE explaining that due to an increase in the household bills she is increasing your board to £XXX, obviously ensuring that you are still able to meet your required contribution to BE.

I'm sure that as long as the increase is deemed reasonable then they should have no reason not to accept it, as most peoples bills increase year on year (particularly Council Tax)

Hope that helps.

Lou

I would certainly want an increase in your board and lodge payment if I were your Mum, Chris, and with inflation running at approx 2.5% that would appear to be a sensible increase.

But of course you will need to demonstrate that you are actually paying and increased sum to your mother.

Many thanks Mel and Lou. Will do this when my next review comes up.

Hi
I would increase it by the retail price index currently running at 4.1%
Regards