Current and former postmasters have until 31 January to apply to the Horizon Shortfall Scheme.
Anyone who may have been impacted by the Horizon technology scandal has until 11:59pm on 31 January 2026 to submit an application.
As of 28 November 2025, £769m has been paid through the Horizon Shortfall Scheme while £1,326m in total has been paid in financial redress for the Horizon IT Scandal to over 10,000 people across all schemes.
Post Office is raising awareness of the Horizon Shortfall Scheme closure date so as many eligible people as possible who were impacted by the Horizon IT Scandal can receive financial redress. The organisation has sent out letters to those who may be eligible and placed adverts in national newspapers and on social media in recent months.
Applicants can choose between a £75,000 fixed sum offer or a full assessment of their case if they believe they are entitled to a higher amount. Applications can also be submitted on behalf of those who are ill, unable to do so themselves, or who have died, subject to certain criteria.
Applications can be made here. Potential applicants can also call the Remediation Contact Centre on 0333 665 1093 or email horizonshortfallscheme@postoffice.co.uk with questions or for support.
Post Office chief executive, Neil Brocklehurst, said: “I want everyone affected by the Horizon IT Scandal who is eligible for financial redress to receive it as soon as possible. There is just one month left to apply to the Horizon Shortfall Scheme, so please don’t wait – applications must be received by 31st January.
“If you have questions, our team is ready to talk through your options with you. Postmaster representative groups, such as the National Federation of Sub-Postmasters, Voice of the Postmaster, or the Communication Workers Union, can also offer support.”
Post Office Minister Blair McDougall added: “It is my priority that postmasters receive fair redress as quickly as possible in recognition of the hurt that so many of them and their families suffered. The Horizon Shortfall Scheme has been central to this effort, paying out over £700 million to more than 6,000 people affected.
“I encourage anyone who thinks they might be eligible for the scheme to come forward before it closes, and we will continue working to ensure all those affected receive the justice they deserve.”
In addition to financial redress, Post Office said it is committed to supporting those impacted by the Horizon IT Scandal through a meaningful restorative justice programme. The Restorative Justice Council launched the Horizon Project in September 2025, a restorative justice programme for people affected by the Horizon IT Scandal. The project is jointly commissioned and funded by Post Office, Fujitsu and the Department for Business and Trade, but the Restorative Justice Council is an independent organisation with over 25 years of experience.
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