Abstract: A combined benefits service claim payment and credit system is disclosed which may comprise: a transaction processor, which may be in immediate communication with a benefits service provider over a communication link for receipt of information from the service provider in real time regarding a benefits service recipient and benefits service provided or to be provided. The transaction processor also may be in immediate communication with a claim payer over a communication link for the transmission of information in real time to the payer relating to the service recipient, the service provider and the to be provided service or provided service and for receipt in real time of confirmation of coverage and the amount of coverage.