Fridges, freezers and washing machines

If a client meets all qualifications, they can get a Recoverable Assistance Payment for fridges, fridge-freezers, freezers and washing machines (collectively known as whiteware).

There is a preferred supplier arrangement in place for whiteware. This means clients must purchase their whiteware from a preferred supplier.

If a client refuses to purchase from a preferred supplier, the application for a Recoverable Assistance Payment must be declined.

A client may purchase more than one type of goods if they meet the qualifications for both. For example, a client may purchase both a washing machine and fridge-freezer.

Except where exceptional circumstances exist, the total payment cannot exceed:

• 6 weeks of the appropriate rate of Supported Living Payment the client would be entitled to get or
• rates set in the preferred supplier arrangement

whichever is lower.

If a client purchases whiteware from a preferred supplier and subsequently applies for further assistance for the same item, MSD must consider what has happened to cause their need.

If the whiteware has broken down within 5 years of the date of purchase, consider whether the client has checked if help is available from the preferred supplier in accordance with:

• the warranty period or
• consumer protections in the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993.