| So what are the QuickCalc tools? They are tools for quickly coming up with accurate benefit estimates. They also include tools and utilities for essential tasks in benefits and advice work.  What's different about them? They are all designed to get to the answer quickly - with no scripted questions or multiple screens to manage. They are designed to let you use your knowledge to "cut to the chase" quickly. Who uses them? They are in use at many Local Authorities, Advice Centres, Housing Agencies, Government Departments, Financial Advisors, National Charities, Training Agencies and so on. There are currently over 2,500 subscribers. How easy are they to use? That depends on you. If you are already involved in advice or benefits work they are easy-peasy. No-one ever asks us about how to use them. The tools have been in development since 2003 - mainly used by Local Authorities and advisors - so they have evolved in response to the specific needs of people working in advice and benefits. |
Do I need to be good at IT to install
them? They don't need to be installed. All users simply use them direct from the internet in their normal web browser. Its as easy as using any other web page. All subscribers get an individual username and password to access the tools from any internet connected PC. That's it. Is there any support? There is full support by email or telephone during office hours. However, the tools are so straightforward and robust that few people have ever needed support. From 1,600 subscribers there are maybe 2 simple support requests per week (usually because someone forgets their password). But yes, the support is there if you can think of a reason to ask for it. How do we get QuickCalc? Go to the homepage and fill out the on-line order form and submit your users' names and email addresses. We'll send an invoice back. Your users are normally able to access the tools the same day because everything is done electronically. All orgs that place an order are given 1 month provisional access to allow time for payment to complete by cheque BACS or on-line bank payment. |
||
| What do the tools look like? Have a look at the tools using the screenshot icons below - each contains a full image with captions to explain key points. They are not functional of course - they are just screenshots - but they have an example calculation filled in. If you want to try out the real thing, apply for a free 30 day trial. All the actual tools are designed to fit onto one screen and print off on a single page of A4 paper. |
|||
Housing Benefit Entitlement tool Screenshot |
Council Tax Benefit Entitlement tool Screenshot |
Pension Credit Entitlement tool Screenshot |
Tax Credit Entitlement tool Screenshot |
| Tax Credits for HB converter Screenshot |
PAYE average tool for HB & CTB Screenshot |
Un-earned income converter Screenshot |
16/30 hour Disregard tool Screenshot |
| PAYE take-home pay converter Screenshot |
Self Employed (simple) Screenshot |
Self Employed income for HB & CTB Screenshot |
Calculation utilities and converters Screenshot |