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Full means test
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When to use the full means test
After the initial means test, if the adjusted annual income is calculated as more than £12,475 and less than £22,325, a full means test will be carried out.
How the full means test works
The full means test works out an applicant’s disposable income. This is done by deducting the following from the gross annual income (please note that the adjusted income is not valid for the full means test):
- tax and National Insurance
- annual housing costs
- annual childcare costs
- annual maintenance to former partners and any children
- an adjusted annual living allowance.
To qualify for criminal legal aid, an applicant’s annual disposable income needs to be less than £3,398.
The applicant must also pass the Interests of Justice test to qualify for legal aid.
Last updated: 14 July 2008