Terms of Use

Last updated: 4 August 2026

Acceptance of Terms

By accessing and using the sage-stoat website and services, you accept and agree to be bound by these Terms of Use. If you do not agree with any part of these terms, you should not use our website or services.

Nature of Services

sage-stoat provides consultancy services relating to UK benefit applications and pension claims. Our services include advice, application preparation, evidence gathering, and representation in dealings with government departments.

Not Legal Advice

While our consultants have expertise in welfare law and benefit procedures, our services constitute consultancy rather than formal legal representation. For complex legal matters or litigation, you may need to engage a qualified solicitor.

No Guaranteed Outcomes

We cannot guarantee the outcome of any benefit application or appeal. Decisions rest with the relevant government department or tribunal based on their assessment of eligibility criteria and evidence.

Service Fees

Fees for our services are stated clearly on our website and confirmed before engagement. Payment terms are as follows:

• Initial consultations are provided free of charge
• Service fees become payable upon agreement to proceed
• Payment is required before commencement of substantive work
• Fees are non-refundable once work has commenced

Client Responsibilities

When engaging our services, you agree to:

• Provide accurate and complete information about your circumstances
• Disclose all relevant facts including those that may affect eligibility
• Respond promptly to requests for additional information or documentation
• Inform us immediately of any changes to your situation
• Attend appointments and assessments as scheduled
• Review documents we prepare before submission

Our Responsibilities

We commit to:

• Providing competent consultancy services exercising reasonable skill and care
• Acting in your best interests within the scope of our engagement
• Maintaining confidentiality of your information
• Communicating clearly about progress, timelines, and any issues that arise
• Complying with relevant professional standards and legal obligations

Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law:

• We are not liable for decisions made by government departments or tribunals
• We are not responsible for delays caused by third parties including DWP, HMRC, or medical providers
• Our total liability in connection with our services is limited to the fees paid for those services
• We are not liable for indirect, consequential, or special damages

Nothing in these terms excludes liability for death or personal injury caused by negligence, fraud, or other matters where exclusion is prohibited by law.

Intellectual Property

All content on this website including text, graphics, logos, and design elements is owned by or licensed to sage-stoat and protected by copyright and other intellectual property rights. You may not reproduce, distribute, or create derivative works without written permission.

Website Use

You agree not to:

• Use the website in any way that violates applicable laws or regulations
• Attempt to gain unauthorised access to our systems or networks
• Introduce viruses, malware, or other harmful code
• Interfere with the proper functioning of the website
• Collect or harvest personal information about other users

Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to external websites. We are not responsible for the content, privacy practices, or terms of use of third-party sites. Links are provided for convenience and do not constitute endorsement.

Disclaimer

The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes. While we strive for accuracy, benefit regulations and procedures change frequently. Content may not reflect the most current legal developments. Always confirm current requirements with official sources or through our consultancy services.

Indemnification

You agree to indemnify and hold sage-stoat harmless from claims, damages, losses, and expenses arising from your breach of these terms or misuse of our services.

Termination

We reserve the right to refuse service or terminate our relationship with you if:

• You provide false or misleading information
• You fail to cooperate with reasonable requests
• Your conduct is abusive or threatening toward our staff
• Continuing the engagement would require us to breach professional obligations

Governing Law

These Terms of Use are governed by the laws of England and Wales. Any disputes arising from these terms or our services will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.

Changes to Terms

We may revise these Terms of Use from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated revision date. Continued use of our website or services after changes constitute acceptance of the revised terms.

Severability

If any provision of these terms is found to be unenforceable, the remaining provisions will continue in full force and effect.

Contact Information

If you have questions about these Terms of Use, please contact us at:

sage-stoat
47 Colmore Row
Birmingham
B3 2BS
United Kingdom

Email: [email protected]