Current and former postmasters are being urged to apply to the Horizon Shortfall Scheme with one month to go before the application deadline on 31 January 2026.
Applications can be submitted via an online form, by email or post and must be received by 11:59pm on 31 January 2026.
The reminder comes two years after the ITV drama, Mr Bates v The Post Office, aired on News Years Day 2024.
£769 million has been paid through the Horizon Shortfall Scheme, as of 28 November 2025. In total, £1,326 million 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.
Neil Brocklehurst, Post Office Chief Executive, 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 said: “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.”
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.
Current and former postmasters who have, or had, a contract with Post Office and experienced shortfalls related to previous versions of Horizon are encouraged to check the eligibility criteria and submit an application.
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.
Help and support is available for those with further questions via phone and email from a dedicated claimant support team.
