In January this year we launched a new initiative to allow providers to opt to be paid "variable" monthly payments for Legal Help and Crime (Lower) work.

The new payment option has been extremely popular. Since March more than 400 providers have opted to be paid on the basis of their month-by-month claims.

Under the variable payment option payments and claims are closely tied together and providers are paid what is due to them without delay so overpayments and underpayments are a thing of the past.

As a result, providers on the variable payment option need not fear the potential cash flow crises significant cuts in SMP can bring.

For more information on how you can opt to be paid variable monthly payments, visit the following link
http://www.legalservices.gov.uk/docs/main/Reconciliation-Guidance-for-Providers.pdf or contact the Reconciliation Team at Reconciliation@legalservices.gsi.gov.uk.