4. Third-party deductionsHow third-party deductions workMore than one deductionPriority of debtsHow much can be deductedDeductions from universal creditDeductions from other means-tested benefitsThe deductionsRent/service charges arrearsCouncil tax arrearsUtility arrearsCourt finesChild maintenanceWater DirectConsent for deductionsThird-party deductions and insolvencyThird-party deductions and the Debt Arrangement SchemePeople getting certain benefits can have deductions taken from their benefit and paid directly to a creditor or supplier under the third-party deduction scheme. Third-party deductions can only be made when it is considered to be in the interest of the client or the client’s family. They should only be used by a creditor when all other recovery methods have been exhausted.