How you receive your money

You will access your direct payment funds using your online account or debit card. It works like an normal debit card but instead of a bank account it is linked to a direct payment account. 

We will set your account up with Pre-Paid Financial Services (PFS/EML) and your funds will be paid in on a monthly basis. If you do not want a PFS/EML account, you can open your own account, you will need to provide receipts and bank statements of expenditure when asked to do so.

You can access your PFS/EML account online or by phone to see: 

• how much you have spent
• how much money is available
• make online payments, set up standing orders or direct debits

If you are an adult you can also pay your own contribution for your care into this account.

You might want someone else who helps with your care and support needs to have access to your direct payments account as well.