Preferred supplier arrangements
When a preferred supplier arrangement is in place the client must purchase the specified goods and services from a preferred supplier.
The following specified goods and services have a preferred supplier arrangement:
- fridges, fridge-freezers, freezers and washing machines (whiteware)
- glasses (optical goods and services)
When a client applies for an Advance Payment of Benefit for one of the specified goods or services they must be told about the preferred supplier arrangement. MSD must also provide this information in writing to the client.
Whiteware
If a client refuses to purchase from a preferred supplier the application for Advance Payment of Benefit must be declined.
Glasses
If a client who resides in an urban area that is covered by a preferred supplier arrangement for glasses (optical goods and services) refuses to purchase from a preferred supplier the application for an Advance Payment of Benefit must be declined.
For more information see:
- Preferred supplier arrangement - fridges, freezers and washing machines
- Whiteware hardship assistance [no link find out why] procedures
- Preferred supplier arrangement - glasses
- Glasses and eye tests hardship assistance [no link find out why] procedures
Legislation
- Preferred suppliers: contracts section 366 Social Security Act 2018
- Preferred suppliers: determinations section 367 Social Security Act 2018
- Preferred suppliers: transitional or savings provisions directions section 372 Social Security Act 2018
- Preferred suppliers: paying them disability allowance, special assistance, or advance payment section 368 Social Security Act 2018
- Direction in relation to the preferred supply of goods and services
