Prepare financial records without exposing more than necessary

Financial records are sensitive. Disability support files may also contain medical and identity information that a means-test auditor does not need. Good preparation makes the financial story easier to examine while reducing unnecessary exposure.

Keep source records intact

Download full statements directly from the institution where possible. Store an unchanged original. If you create a working copy with highlights or notes, label it clearly so it cannot be mistaken for the source.

Remove unrelated medical detail

Do not bundle medical reports into a financial review unless a specific, legitimate reason has been agreed. A proof of payment can often demonstrate an expense without disclosing a diagnosis. Ask before redacting information that may be required by the deciding authority.

Name files for the record, not the person

Use names such as transaction-account_2026-01.pdf or employment-proof_2026-02.pdf. Avoid identity numbers in filenames. Put files in folders by category and period, and make a brief index if the collection is large.

Use the agreed transfer method

Email is useful for arranging the engagement, not automatically appropriate for unredacted statements. Wait for secure collection instructions. Confirm the recipient and avoid sending links with public access.

Review representatives and permissions

If a relative or adviser will share records or attend findings, the applicant should understand and authorise that access. Permission should identify the person and scope rather than giving indefinite access to every record.

Once the purpose ends, keep only what another obligation requires. Sourcegridbase’s retention and deletion approach is explained in our privacy notice.