Is CAB free?

I have finally been sent a CAB appointment after weeks of trying. The letter states i will be receiving advice under the legal help scheme. And they want proof of my income. I have found out that im not entitled to legal aid and welfare rights but i assumed CAB was free for all? Have i got this wrong?

I can categorically state that CAB services are free to all, i used the services of my local office benefits specialist to sucessfully claim DLA.
As far as i know Welfare Rights is only available to those on benefits or a low income.

Ranald.

It depends what services you're using.

I'm a trained CAB adviser. In our area, there are volunteers and a variety of paid staff. The volunteers see all comers, but the paid staff see different sorts of people depending on who is funding them, with each funder having different eligibility criteria.

Thank you , i am appealing against my dla decision.
I am beginning to worry now as i only have a week left and this was the earliest appointment i could get. I do have a good job and dont mind paying (my brain is working , is my body that doesnt) i just cant afford my case to be delayed any further because of the time limit.

If they're going to conduct the actual appeal, they're probably (but not necessarily) relying on Legal Services Commission funding (i.e. legal aid).

I think you would be best to get in touch first thing tomorrow and find out what the position is as regards your eligibility for help, as if they can't help there may be someone else who can, perhaps a community group with someone skilled in advocacy.