Tel/Mobile/ Sat/ Package

script

I know that satellite TV is not an “allowable” expense in B/R.

But say you have a “package” of telephone/mobile/ and satellite TV …

Would the OR allow it?

Maybe by diplomatically suggested that the “package” is actually cheaper than having telephone and mobile costs separately?

(Note to self – it’s likely to depend on each individual OR – some may and others might not – but I’m sure the good people in the forum will comment).

Many thanks

script

Thanks Phil.

tigerfeet2006

Though if said package is £30 for the three and you are 'allowed' £50/60 for phones it can be included in that. I have a feeling I read on the IS website that if you have one of these packages the OR will let it be put down as such because of the deal. Sorry haven't got time to search for the link at the mo.

blind-as-a-bat_2

31.7.35 Satellite TV and broadband internet contracts

Ongoing contracts for the supply of goods and services which remain extant at the date of bankruptcy vest in the trustee of the bankruptcy estate. Where the bankrupt is still in receipt of ongoing services under contract at the date of bankruptcy, notice should be given by the official receiver/trustee to the service provider stating that he/she does not wish to adopt the contract and services provided under the contract should cease. This includes contracts for satellite TV or broadband internet connection,where the bankrupt has signed up to the agreement for a set period which cannot be terminated without a penalty being incurred. Any penalty for early cancellation should be included as a debt in the bankruptcy proceedings.

NB: With the advent of combined telephone and internet packages available via broadband (where telephone services are provided free or at a reduced rate as a result of the broadband service provision), the official receiver should consider whether the expenditure claimed for these combined services may in fact be equal to or less than the cost of a traditional land line only telephone service, which would be considered a reasonable domestic need. However, the need to notify the service provider regarding non-adoption of the contract must still be taken in to account by the official receiver/trustee.

.............

fermi

Was just going to look for that quote BAAB.

script

Thanks so much for the details.

Is broadband an allowable expense?

It would be ironic if it isn't - if we filled the B/R papers online.

If it isn't allowable - would "dial up" be allowable?

tigerfeet2006

It is only 'allowable' if it is essential for work purposes or for school work. You can still have these things but they will have to come from surplus but as has been said it can be put under phones.

script

Tigerfeet - again thanks.

So reading between the lines - (subject to different OR's views)

If you can squeeze landline, mobile, broadband (for work or childrens' education) and satellite into £60pm - you should be OK.

In other words you might not have to pay for broadband and satellite out of any surplus.

A word of caution to everyone - always stay diplomatic with the Examiner - they'll normally try and "help" if the reasons are good enough - subject of course to all the rules.

(By the way I haven't got satellite so it really doesn't apply to me - and thinking about it my broadband provider is awful...dial up may actually be faster...) lol