For a candidate’s nomination to be valid, the sum of £500 must be deposited with the Electoral Office for Northern Ireland by the deadline for nominations, by 4pm, 19 working days before the poll. The deposit can be made using:1
cash (British pounds only)
a UK banker’s draft
CHAPS
If you are considering paying the deposit via CHAPS, you should discuss this with the Electoral Office for Northern Ireland, who will provide you with the bank account details. Payment via CHAPS must have received the Chief Electoral Officer's account by 4pm 19 working days before the poll.
Candidates who poll more than 5% of the total valid votes cast in the constituency will have their deposit returned. Those candidates who have polled less than, or equal to, 5% of the total valid votes cast will lose their deposit.