Benefits calculator

10-minute benefits check
Use our Benefits Calculator to find out what you can get

The cost of living in the UK has surged significantly, leaving many individuals facing financial challenges. Fortunately, assistance is available—not just for those unemployed but also for people who are earning yet still finding it hard to make ends meet. There’s extra support if you have children, caregiving responsibilities, or a long-term health condition. Shockingly, millions are missing out on an estimated £23 BILLION in unclaimed benefits, making it well worth taking a moment to check what you might be eligible for.

 

What benefits can I claim?

This Benefits Calculator serves as a quick and easy tool to help you determine if you qualify for financial assistance. By considering your income, savings, and the details you share about your situation, the calculator identifies potential financial support you might be eligible for. Additionally, it highlights some of the applicable non-means-tested benefits, though it may not cover all of them.

Important: What you qualify for depends entirely on your specific situation – the accuracy of the calculator relies on the information you provide.

What next?

If the calculator determines that you’re eligible for assistance, you can explore the essentials of applying and access links to resources that can guide you through the application process. If you have children, caregiving duties, or a chronic health condition, make sure to check the sections below to discover additional non-means-tested support you might qualify for.

If the calculator doesn’t identify any assistance based on your income, you could still be eligible for other forms of help if you’re facing difficulties. Review the sections below to see what options may be available to you.

Will I qualify for benefits?

If you’re facing financial challenges, you might qualify for some form of financial assistance—even if you’re employed or don’t consider your income to be low. The best way to find out what you might be eligible for is by using the Benefits Calculator provided above. It evaluates your personal circumstances and suggests the types of support that could be available to you.

It’s essential to understand that benefits are not exclusively for those who are unemployed. State assistance is designed to support a variety of individuals, including those with low incomes, new families, and people dealing with long-term medical conditions. Therefore, it’s always worth checking the Benefits Calculator to determine if you’re entitled to any assistance.

Recent data highlights that eligible households miss out on over £22 billion annually in means-tested benefits alone. This figure doesn’t even account for non-means-tested benefits, such as those available for individuals with disabilities. If you’re in need of help, investing just 10 minutes to check your eligibility could make a significant difference.

What does low income mean?

If your household income is below £40,000 per year, it’s always worth checking whether you’re eligible for benefits—especially if you have children or rent your home.

One key point to understand is that benefits aren’t just for those who are unemployed. Government support is available to assist people in a variety of circumstances, such as individuals with low incomes, new parents, or those managing chronic medical conditions. Even individuals earning a relatively high salary might qualify for certain types of assistance.

Is there a maximum amount of benefits you can claim?

If you’re aged 16 or older but below the state pension age, the amount of benefits you can typically claim is subject to the ‘Benefit Cap.’ This is a government-imposed limit on the total state financial support you may receive.

The exact maximum you can claim depends on your location within the UK and your specific living arrangements.

Below is a table detailing the monthly benefit limits based on your personal circumstances:

	Outside London	London
Single	£1,229.42	£1,412.92
Single parent	£1,835.00	£2,110.25
Couple	£1,835.00	£2,110.25

 

If you receive specific benefits, like Personal Independence Payment or Carer’s Allowance, or if you’re above the state pension age, the Benefit Cap might not apply to you. This means you could be eligible to claim more in monthly state support than the capped amount.

Benefit checklist

Benefits for those working and on a low income

If you’re earning a low income and meet the criteria for means-tested benefits, you’ll likely need to apply for Universal Credit. This monthly payment is designed to help individuals manage their living and housing expenses.

That said, Universal Credit is just one of several benefits available to assist those in financial difficulty. Depending on your situation, you might be eligible to receive multiple benefits simultaneously. To find out what you can claim, consider using the Benefits Calculator and exploring the resources linked below.

Universal Credit – a means-tested benefit for those under state pension age

Universal Credit (UC): A Monthly Lifeline for Living and Housing Costs. Universal Credit (UC) is a monthly benefit aimed at helping individuals who face challenges covering their living and housing expenses. If you’re unemployed, unable to work due to illness, or earning a low income—and have savings under £16,000—you may qualify for UC.

This benefit is calculated on a monthly basis, adjusting to your financial needs. If your income decreases in a given month, your UC payment may increase (and vice versa). Additional payments may also be available based on your specific circumstances, such as having children, living with a disability or health condition, or paying rent.

Beyond the standard monthly payment, receiving UC can unlock access to other types of support tailored to your needs. These may include assistance with childcare costs, discounts on utility bills, and reduced broadband rates. Additionally, you might be eligible for other benefits alongside UC, depending on your personal situation.

For a comprehensive overview, check out the complete Universal Credit guide.

Pension Credit – a means-tested benefit for those over state pension age

Pension Credit provides additional financial support, ensuring that individuals above the State Pension age receive at least a minimum income.

Pension Credit comes in two forms. Guarantee Credit increases the income of those with lower earnings, offering a top-up to £218.15 per week (note that savings over £10,000 could reduce this amount). Savings Credit is available to those who reached State Pension age on or before 5 April 2016 and have built up some savings. Extra payments are also available for people who are disabled or act as carers.

For more detailed information, refer to the full Pension Credit guide.

To apply, call all the Pension Service on 0800 99 1234 or head to the Gov.uk website.

Council Tax reduction – help with your Council Tax bill

Since April 2013, the national Council Tax benefit has been replaced by locally managed Council Tax support, with individual local authorities determining the level of assistance provided.

It’s worth checking if your local council offers any discounts. For instance, full-time students may be exempt, single occupants can receive a 25% discount, and additional support is available for those with disabilities or severe mental impairments.

If you qualify for assistance, you might also be eligible to apply for a discretionary housing payment. Each local council has its own budget and criteria, so these guidelines can vary depending on your location.

To apply contact your council or google “www.yourarea.gov.uk” to find out its procedure.

Unemployment benefits

If you’re currently unemployed, whether temporarily or due to a long-term health issue, the primary support available to you is Universal Credit.

However, if you’ve recently lost your job and aren’t eligible for Universal Credit due to receiving a substantial redundancy payment or having significant savings, you may qualify for new-style Jobseeker’s Allowance instead.

Universal Credit – a means-tested benefit for those with low or no income

Universal Credit (UC) is a monthly financial aid program aimed at helping individuals manage their living and housing expenses. If you are unemployed, unable to work due to illness, or earn a low income with savings of less than £16,000, you may be eligible for UC.

In addition, you could receive extra payments based on specific circumstances such as having children, living with a disability or illness, or paying rent.

To determine if you qualify for UC, you can easily use our Benefits Calculator. For a more in-depth explanation of how Universal Credit works, visit our detailed Universal Credit guide.

The amount of UC you receive is determined by your needs, so as your income increases, your UC payments will decrease, but they won’t end completely unless your earnings exceed certain thresholds.

New-style Jobseeker’s Allowance – non-means-tested support for those who have recently lost their job

If you’ve recently lost your job and were previously employed (rather than self-employed), you may qualify for ‘new-style’ Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA).

Your eligibility depends on whether you’ve made sufficient Class 1 National Insurance contributions over the past two to three years while employed. Contributions from self-employment are not considered.

This benefit is not means-tested, meaning it is not affected by the amount of savings you or your partner have. However, this also means that it doesn’t account for extra expenses such as rent or children. As a result, some individuals may find it a more suitable option than Universal Credit, especially if their savings disqualify them from receiving Universal Credit.

The only exception to this is if you receive pensions exceeding £50 per week (unless they are survivor pensions), which will reduce your JSA entitlement.

To continue receiving JSA, you’ll need to meet certain ‘preparing for work’ requirements. These include attending training sessions, applying for jobs, and attending interviews. Failure to complete these tasks may lead to a temporary reduction in your JSA payments.

Family benefits

Caring for children can be costly. Fortunately, a variety of benefits are available to support families, regardless of their situation – including child benefit, which is accessible to anyone with dependent children under 16, as long as their income is below £80,000.

This section focuses on benefits specifically designed for those raising children. However, depending on your unique circumstances, you may also qualify for benefits in other categories.

Child Benefit – for those earning less than £60,000 with children under 16

Child Benefit is available to parents or guardians of children under the age of 16, or 20 in certain circumstances.

You’ll receive £24.00 per week for your oldest child, and £15.90 per week for each additional child. Payments are made every four weeks, up until the 31st of August following your child’s 16th birthday, or up to age 20 if they are in full-time education or approved training.

If you or your partner earn more than £60,000, you might need to pay tax on your Child Benefit. If your income exceeds £80,000, the entire benefit is withdrawn through tax. For more details, refer to our comprehensive Child Benefit guide.

To make an initial claim, complete the Child Benefit claim form (CH2) and send it to the Child Benefit office (address on the form). If your child was adopted, you will also need to include their adoption certificate.

If you missed applying when your child was born or adopted, you can still apply before they turn 16. However, you can only backdate your claim by a maximum of three months.

For adding a child to your claim who is under six months old, contact the Child Benefit helpline at 0300 200 3100 instead of filling out a new form. Have your national insurance number and your child’s birth certificate ready when you call.

Free School Meals – for those on means-tested benefits and a very low or no income

If you receive certain means-tested benefits, such as Universal Credit or Tax Credits, and your income falls below the specified threshold, your child might qualify for Free School Meals.

Our guide on Free School Meals explains the eligibility criteria and highlights additional support available during school holidays.

Note: This is different from ‘Universal Infant Free School Meals,’ which are available to all children in state-funded schools from reception through year two. In Scotland, all primary one to five students are entitled to Universal Infant Free School Meals. In Wales, all reception-aged children have been eligible for free school meals since September 2022, with plans to extend this to all primary schoolchildren by 2024.

Healthy Start Voucher (England & Wales) – means-tested help with food costs for children under four

If you have a child under the age of four and receive certain means-tested benefits, such as Universal Credit, and your income is below the relevant thresholds, you could be eligible for the Healthy Start card.

Healthy Start provides £4.25 per week on a prepaid card for pregnant women and families with children under four (£8.50 per week for babies under one). This can be used to buy milk, as well as fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables. In addition, you’ll receive free vitamins during pregnancy and for children aged four weeks to four years. The card can be used at any store that accepts Mastercard.

For more details on Healthy Start.

If you’re receiving Universal Credit or Child Tax Credits, you can apply online. For those on income support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), Pension Credit, Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), or under 18 without benefits, you can apply via email or phone (0300 330 7010).

Even if you have no recourse to public funds, you may still qualify for the Healthy Start card, provided your child is a British citizen and your household income is £408 or less per month after tax.

Best Start Foods (Scotland) – means-tested help with food costs for children under four

If you receive Universal Credit, other income-related benefits like Tax Credits or Income Support, or are under 18 (and not receiving any benefits), you may be eligible for a Best Start Foods card.

Best Start Foods is a prepaid card that allows you to purchase healthy food and drinks, such as milk and fruit, during pregnancy and when you have a child under the age of three. You will receive £21.20 every four weeks during pregnancy, £42.40 every four weeks from your child’s birth until they turn one, and £21.20 every four weeks for children aged one to three.

To apply, simply complete the online form or call 0800 182 2222. You can also use this form to apply for the Best Start Grants and the Scottish Child Payment simultaneously.

Even if you have no recourse to public funds, you may still qualify for the Best Start Foods card, provided your child is a British citizen and your family’s monthly income (after tax) is £660 or less.

Guardian’s Allowance – for those raising children after the death of their parent

Guardian’s Allowance is a financial support available for individuals caring for a child whose parents have passed away. This benefit is not means-tested, but you must already be receiving Child Benefit in order to qualify.

Eligible claimants will receive £21.75 per week, paid in four-weekly installments, in addition to the Child Benefit payments they already receive.

To apply, complete the required form and submit it to the Guardian’s Allowance Unit along with the original copies of the child’s full birth certificate and the death certificates of the parents.

Statutory Maternity Pay – for those who are pregnant and in employment

Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) is a benefit for pregnant employees. It provides 90% of your average weekly earnings (before tax) for the first six weeks. After that, you’ll receive either £184.03 per week or 90% of your average weekly earnings (whichever is lower) for the remaining 33 weeks.

SMP is paid for up to 39 weeks while you’re on maternity leave. To qualify, you need to have been employed with the same employer for at least 26 weeks by the 15th week before your due date (referred to as your “qualifying week”) and earn a minimum of £123 per week on average.

Typically, Statutory Maternity Pay begins when you start your maternity leave. However, it can also begin automatically if you’re off work due to pregnancy-related illness in the four weeks leading up to your due date.

SMP is paid in the same way you receive your usual wages. To ensure you receive it, you must inform your employer about your pregnancy and specify when you’d like to start your maternity leave. Additionally, you’ll need to provide evidence of your pregnancy, such as a letter from your doctor or midwife, or your MATB1 certificate.

While SMP is the statutory minimum, you may be entitled to a more generous maternity package if your employer offers an enhanced maternity scheme.

Maternity Allowance – for those not entitled to Statutory Maternity Pay

If you’re on maternity leave but don’t qualify for statutory maternity pay, such as in the case of self-employment, you may be eligible for Maternity Allowance for up to 39 weeks. You can apply after 26 weeks of pregnancy, but your payments will begin 11 weeks before your baby’s expected due date.

Generally, the amount is 90% of your average weekly earnings, or £184.03—whichever is lower—throughout the 39-week period. There may be some exceptions.

To apply, consult your midwife or visit the Gov.uk website to download the Maternity Allowance claim form (MA1). The form requires details about your work over the 66 weeks prior to your baby’s due date, along with proof of income. Additionally, you will need to provide evidence of your baby’s expected arrival date, which can be a letter from your doctor or midwife, or your MATB1 certificate.

Statutory Paternity Pay – for those taking time off work when their partner is having a baby

Statutory Paternity Pay is available for those who need time off work to support their partner following the birth of a child.

You’ll receive either £184.03 per week or 90% of your average weekly earnings (whichever is lower) for the one or two weeks you take off. Payments will be made in the same way you typically receive your wages.

Your paternity leave must start after the baby is born and end within 56 days of the birth (or the due date if the baby is born early).

To qualify for Statutory Paternity Pay and leave, you need to have worked for the same employer for at least 26 weeks by the 15th week before your baby’s due date (known as your ‘qualifying week’) and earn at least £123 per week on average.

Statutory Paternity Pay is the minimum required by law, but your employer may offer more if they have a specific scheme in place.

Typically, you can request Paternity Leave and pay through your employer. If they have their own form, complete that one; otherwise, use the standard form provided.

You may also qualify for Shared Parental Leave (SPL), but note that you cannot take Paternity Leave after SPL. There are additional rules for adoptive parents as well.

Statutory Adoption Pay – for those taking time off work to adopt a child

Statutory Adoption Pay is a benefit provided to individuals who take time off work to adopt a child.

You can receive up to 52 weeks of Statutory Adoption Leave, with adoption pay available for the first 39 weeks.

For the first six weeks of your leave, Statutory Adoption Pay is 90% of your average weekly earnings. For the remaining 33 weeks, you will receive either £184.03 per week or 90% of your average weekly earnings, whichever is lower.

To be eligible, you must have worked for the same employer for at least 26 weeks before the week you are matched with your child and earn a minimum of £123 per week on average.

To apply for Statutory Adoption Pay, notify your employer. You must usually provide at least 28 days’ notice and submit evidence of adoption, such as a letter from your adoption agency or a matching certificate.

While Statutory Adoption Pay is the minimum required by law, some employers may offer additional benefits through their own adoption schemes.

Best Start Grants (Scotland) – means-tested grants for those who have recently had children

If you reside in Scotland, are receiving certain means-tested benefits (or are under 18 and not claiming benefits), and have recently had a baby, you may qualify for the Best Start Grants. These are three one-time payments made during the early years of your child’s life.

• Pregnancy and Baby Payment: This payment is available from the end of the 24th week of pregnancy until your baby turns six months old. If you are adopting a child, you can apply up to the day before the child’s first birthday. The payment is available for each child, provided they meet the age requirements, although the amount varies if you have multiple children.
• Early Learning Payment: This payment helps with the costs of early learning and is available when your child is between the ages of two and three and a half.
• School Age Payment: Designed to assist with the costs of preparing for school. To qualify for the payment, your child does not need to be enrolled in school yet, but you must apply in the year your child is old enough to begin school.

For comprehensive information on the Best Start Grant payments, refer to our Maternity Grants Guide.

If you qualify for the Best Start Grants, you might also be eligible for the Scottish Child Payment and Best Start Foods. You can apply for all of these benefits through a single online form, or alternatively, by post or phone.

In the unfortunate event of a stillbirth or if your child passes away after birth, you are still entitled to the Pregnancy and Baby Payment as part of the Best Start Grant. Applications can be made within six months following the baby’s birth.

Scottish Child Payment – for low-income Scots with children under 16

If you’re living in Scotland on a low income and are responsible for a child under the age of sixteen, you might be eligible for the Scottish Child Payment. This benefit provides £26.70 per week to help with the financial demands of raising a child.

To be eligible, you need to be receiving one of the following benefits:

• Universal Credit
• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Pension Credit
• Child Tax Credit
• Working Tax Credit that includes a disability or severe disability element

If your claim is approved, you will receive payments every four weeks until your child reaches the age of 16.

You can submit your application for the Scottish Child Payment on the same form used for the Best Start Grant and Best Start Foods, or, if you prefer, you can apply separately using a different form.

Widowed Parent’s Allowance – for parents who lost their partner before April 2017

If your spouse or civil partner passed away before 6 April 2017, you could be eligible for a special allowance if you are caring for a child or children. A recent legal update now extends eligibility to individuals who were not married or in a civil partnership with their deceased partner.

To be eligible, you must:

• Be under state pension age.
• Be entitled to child benefit for at least one child, and your late spouse or civil partner was their parent.
• Your spouse or civil partner paid national insurance contributions, or they died as a result of a work-related accident or disease.

2024/25 weekly amount: A maximum of £148.40.

For detailed information on how to apply and the specifics of back payments, refer to our guide on Bereavement Support Payments.

To submit your application, visit the Gov.uk website to download the claim form, then apply through your local Jobcentre Plus.

If you’re ineligible due to the fact that your partner passed away after April 2017, you may still qualify for the Bereavement Support Payment.

Disability Living Allowance – for children under 16 who have difficulty walking

If you reside in England or Wales and have a child under 16 with walking difficulties or who requires additional support compared to other children of the same age, you may be eligible for Disability Living Allowance (DLA). DLA is divided into two components: the ‘care’ component and the ‘mobility’ component.

To qualify for DLA, your child must have experienced these challenges for a minimum of three months, and the difficulties are expected to persist for at least six months. The only exception is if your child is anticipated to live for less than six months, in which case, you can receive DLA immediately.

In Northern Ireland, DLA operates differently. For more details, visit NIdirect. In Scotland, DLA is not available; instead, you may be eligible for the Child Disability Payment.

To apply for DLA, you can either download and complete the claim form or contact the DLA helpline to request a printed form. If a healthcare professional has indicated that your child may have six months or less to live, you should contact the DLA helpline directly. Additionally, a medical professional must complete form DS1500.

When your child reaches 16, they must apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) to continue receiving financial assistance. A letter will be sent to your child shortly after their 16th birthday, inviting them to apply. DLA payments will cease unless they submit a PIP application by the specified date in the letter.

If you provide at least 35 hours of care each week to a child receiving the middle or highest care rate of DLA, you may also be eligible for Carer’s Allowance.

Sickness or disability benefits

Living with a disability or chronic illness often brings significant financial strain. Fortunately, there are various benefits designed to support individuals with long-term health conditions, as well as their caregivers. Many of these benefits are not subject to means testing.

Additionally, there are tailored benefits for individuals who have been injured at work, served in the military, or are over State Pension age and require extra care.

Armed Forces Independence Payment – non-means-tested benefit for veterans injured during service

The Armed Forces Independence Payment is a non-means-tested benefit designed to help cover additional costs arising from injuries sustained during military service.

Eligibility for this payment requires you to be entitled to a Guaranteed Income Payment (GIP) of 50% or more of your previous earnings under the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS GIP Bands A to C). Please note, if you’re receiving compensation from the War Pensions Scheme, you’re not eligible for this benefit.

If you’re eligible for the Armed Forces Independence Payment, it will continue for as long as you’re entitled to an AFCS GIP in Band A to C, and you’ll be exempt from the benefit cap.

Veterans UK will automatically send a claim form to those entitled to an AFCS GIP in Bands A to C. If you believe you’re eligible but haven’t received one, contact Veterans UK for assistance.

If you’re not eligible for the Armed Forces Independence Payment, you may qualify for other benefits, such as the Personal Independence Payment or Adult Disability Payment.

Attendance Allowance – for those over state pension age who need help with daily activities

If you’re at state pension age or older and require assistance with personal care, you may qualify for Attendance Allowance. However, if you’re already receiving Disability Living Allowance, Personal Independence Payment, or Adult Disability Payment, you won’t be able to claim Attendance Allowance.

Attendance Allowance is available in two distinct rates, based on the level of help you need:

• Lower rate. £72.65 a week – for those who need frequent help or constant supervision during the day, or supervision at night.
• Higher rate. £108.55 a week – for those who need help or supervision throughout both day and night, or medical professional has said you might have six months or less to live.

To apply for Attendance Allowance, you must provide evidence of a physical or mental condition that requires assistance with personal care, and this need must have existed for at least six months (unless you are expected to live for less than six months). You may be asked to attend an assessment to confirm your eligibility.

To make a claim, complete the application form and send it to ‘Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance’ (no postcode or stamp required). Alternatively, you can contact 0800 731 0122 for assistance.

Attendance Allowance is typically backdated to either the date your form is received or when you first contact the enquiry line, provided you return the claim pack within six weeks.

For detailed information on how to apply for Attendance Allowance, refer to our comprehensive guide.

Blind Person’s Allowance – extra tax allowance for those with severe sight impairments

If you’re living with blindness or severe sight impairment, you might qualify for the Blind Person’s Allowance, an additional tax-free allowance that lets you earn more before being required to pay income tax. For the current tax year, the allowance is set at £3,070.

Should you not be liable for tax, or if your income doesn’t fully utilise your allowance, you can transfer your Blind Person’s Allowance to your spouse or civil partner.

Eligibility for this benefit can differ depending on your location within the UK:

• In England and Wales, you are eligible for Blind Person’s Allowance if you’re registered as blind or severely sight impaired with your local council as blind or severely sight impaired, and you have a certificate from your doctor.
• In Scotland and Northern Ireland, you’ll get the allowance if you can’t do work for which eyesight is essential, and you have a certificate from your doctor that says you’re blind or severely sight impaired.

To claim, call HM Revenue & Customs on 0300 200 3301.

Personal Independence Payment – non-means-tested support for those with long term health conditions

If you’re aged 16 or older, but haven’t yet reached state pension age, and you live in England or Wales, you may be eligible for Personal Independence Payment (PIP). This financial support is designed to assist with the extra expenses resulting from a long-term illness or disability.

To qualify, your health condition or disability should impact your daily activities or make it difficult for you to move around independently. Typically, your condition must have lasted for at least three months and be expected to persist for at least nine months (unless you have a terminal illness and are expected to live for less than 12 months).

The amount of support you receive is based on how your condition affects your daily life, rather than the condition itself. A healthcare professional will assess you to determine the level of assistance you require.

2024/2025 weekly amount: You can get £72.65 or £108.55 a week for the daily living part of the Personal Independence Payment, and £28.70 or £75.75 for the mobility part.

If you qualify for the mobility part of the Personal Independence Payment, you may also be able to get a discount on your vehicle tax.

You can claim Personal Independence Payment by calling the Department for Work and Pensions on 0800 917 2222 or by sending a letter via the post (though this can cause delays).

Adult Disability Payment (Scotland) – non-means-tested support for those with long-term health conditions

If you’re aged 16 or older, but still below the state pension age, and reside in Scotland, you may be eligible for Adult Disability Payment to assist with additional costs resulting from a long-term illness or disability.

To qualify, your health condition or disability should significantly impact your daily activities or make it challenging to move around independently. Generally, the condition should have been present for at least three months and be expected to persist for at least nine months (unless you’re terminally ill with fewer than 12 months to live).

The amount of support you receive is based on how your condition affects your daily life, rather than the condition itself. A healthcare professional will assess your situation to determine the level of assistance you need.

You could receive £72.65 or £108.55 per week for daily living support, and £28.70 or £75.75 for mobility assistance.

You can apply for Adult Disability Payment online or by calling 0800 182 2222.

Carer’s Allowance – support for those who provide care for more than 35 hours a week

If you’re providing care for someone for more than 35 hours weekly, and they receive Attendance Allowance, the care component of Disability Living Allowance at either the middle or higher rate, or the daily living component of Personal Independence Payment, you may qualify for a Carer’s Allowance of £81.90 per week.

You can still work, as long as your earnings do not exceed £139 per week after tax and expenses, such as pension contributions or childcare costs. Additionally, you can study for up to 21 hours per week without affecting your eligibility.

However, you cannot receive the full Carer’s Allowance if you are also receiving a State Pension. If your State Pension is £81.90 or more per week, you won’t receive any Carer’s Allowance. If your pension is less than £81.90 per week, the Carer’s Allowance will help cover the difference.

If you claim Carer’s Allowance and live in Scotland, you’ll also be eligible for the ‘Carer’s Allowance Supplement’. This is a payment of £288.60, made twice a year in June and December. You should be paid this automatically if you qualify.

If you live in England, Scotland or Wales you can claim online or download a form from the Gov.uk website. If you live in Northern Ireland, see NIdirect.

Important: Claiming Carer’s Allowance may lead to a reduction in the benefits of the person you are caring for.

Even if you’re not eligible for Carer’s Allowance, you could still qualify for Carer’s Credit. While you won’t receive a payment, you’ll earn National Insurance Credits that count toward your state pension.

Disability Living Allowance – for children under 16 who have difficulty walking

If you reside in England or Wales and have a child under 16 who struggles with walking or requires extra assistance compared to other children of the same age, you might be eligible to apply for Disability Living Allowance (DLA). DLA is divided into two components: the ‘care’ component and the ‘mobility’ component.

Eligibility for DLA requires that your child has experienced these challenges for a minimum of three months and that they are expected to continue for at least six months. However, if your child is expected to live for less than six months, you can receive DLA immediately.

In Northern Ireland, DLA operates differently. For more detailed information, visit NIdirect. In Scotland, DLA is not available, but your child may qualify for Child Disability Payment instead.

You can apply for Disability Living Allowance (DLA) by either printing the claim form and completing it yourself or calling the DLA helpline to request a printed form. If a medical professional has indicated that your child may have six months or less to live, you should contact the DLA helpline. In this case, you will also need a healthcare provider to complete form DS1500.

Once your child reaches 16, they must apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) (or Adult Disability Payment in Scotland) to continue receiving financial support. After their 16th birthday, they will receive a letter inviting them to apply. DLA payments will stop unless the application for PIP is submitted by the deadline stated in the letter.

If you provide at least 35 hours of care per week for a child who receives the middle or highest care rate of DLA, you may be eligible for Carer’s Allowance.

Disability Facilities Grants – one-off grant for home modifications

The Disability Facilities Grant is a one-time payment available through your local council to assist with home modifications if you have a disability. This grant can help cover the costs of necessary changes, such as widening doors or adding ramps.

The amount you receive is determined by your household income and savings exceeding £6,000. The maximum grant available varies across different regions of the UK:

• In England, you can get up to £30,000
• In Wales, up to £36,000
• In Northern Ireland, up to £25,000

In Scotland, the Disability Facilities Grant is not offered. However, you might be eligible for discretionary assistance from your local council.

The way the funding is provided depends on the specific work being carried out. Your council may either pay the contractor directly or issue you a cheque to give to them. They will confirm the payment process with you once your application is approved.

To apply, get in touch with your council.

New-style Employment and Support Allowance – for those with long-term health conditions who have recently been employed

The New-style Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) provides a fortnightly payment to individuals who are unable to work due to a long-term health condition or disability.

To be eligible for this allowance, you typically need to have been employed within the past two to three years and have made sufficient National Insurance contributions or have been credited with them during the two full tax years preceding the year you submit your claim.

At first, you will receive an ‘assessment rate’ until you complete a ‘capability for work’ assessment. This assessment involves a series of tasks where you accumulate points, with a score of at least 15 indicating that you have a limited ability to work. Certain groups, such as those who are terminally ill, are exempt from this assessment.

Following the assessment, you will be placed into one of two categories: the work-related activity group or the support group. The work-related activity group helps individuals prepare to return to work. If placed in this group, you can claim new-style ESA for up to 365 days and may be required to complete tasks aimed at preparing you for work. On the other hand, if you are in the support group, you are not expected to return to work, and you can claim new-style ESA for an indefinite period.

Once your claim has been reviewed, the outcome will depend on whether you are placed in the ‘work-related activity’ group or the ‘support’ group.

If you are assigned to the ‘support’ group, you may also be eligible for the Severe Disability Premium on any other benefits you claim, and the Benefit Cap will not apply to you.

You can claim ESA along with Universal Credit and/or Personal Independence Payment. However, if you receive both Universal Credit and ESA, your Universal Credit will be reduced by the amount you receive from ESA. ESA cannot be claimed at the same time as Statutory Sick Pay, but you can submit an application up to three months before your Statutory Sick Pay ends.

You can apply for ESA online. You’ll then be contacted by the Department for Work and Pensions within 10 days to arrange an appointment to discuss your condition and arrange a work capability assessment.

If you’re already claiming ESA and want to start working more than 16 hours a week, fill in the ESA permitted work form, and send it to the address at the top of your ESA letters.

Industrial injuries Disablement Benefit – for those who have become ill or disabled due to work

If you suffer from an illness or disability caused by an accident or disease while working, or during an authorized employment training program or course, you may be eligible for Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit.

The benefit amount varies based on the severity of your injury or illness, with weekly payments ranging from £44.30 to £221.50.

However, if you are self-employed, you are not eligible to apply for this benefit. Here’s all the information about eligibility and how to claim.

Statutory Sick Pay – for workers who need to take time off due to illness

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is a benefit provided by UK employers to employees who are unable to work due to illness. The current SSP rate is £116.75 per week, and it can be claimed for up to 28 weeks, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.

If you are off work for more than seven consecutive days, including weekends or non-working days, you will need to submit a ‘fit note’ from your doctor.

Some employers may offer a contractual sick pay that exceeds the SSP rate. In this case, you won’t need to apply for SSP, but the statutory amount is the minimum you are entitled to.

SSP is typically paid in the same manner as your regular wages. If you believe you qualify for SSP, contact your employer for clarification.

For comprehensive details, refer to our Sick Pay rights guide.

Benefits for over-65s

Upon reaching State Pension age, you will no longer qualify for certain key means-tested benefits, like Universal Credit. Instead, a range of tailored state support options becomes available for individuals aged 65 and older. Some of these benefits depend on your pension income and savings, while others are intended to assist those with specific additional needs.

Attendance Allowance – for those who need frequent help with daily activities

If you are of State Pension age or older and require regular assistance with personal care or supervision, Attendance Allowance can provide the support you need.

To qualify, you’ll need to provide detailed information on the type of help you require, such as assistance with dressing, eating, using the toilet, bathing, or needing supervision to ensure your safety. This allowance is designed for individuals with physical or sensory impairments (like blindness), mental health issues, learning difficulties, dementia, or a combination of these.

Some applicants may be asked to attend a medical assessment to assess the level of support required.

Attendance Allowance is available in two tiers: ‘low’ at £72.65 and ‘high’ at £108.55. The rate you receive will depend on the level of care and assistance you need.

You can claim by phoning 0345 605 6055 or by downloading a form from the Gov.uk website.

Pension Credit – means-tested pension top-up

Pension Credit provides an additional payment to ensure that individuals over the State Pension age receive a minimum income. However, government statistics reveal that approximately 800,000 pensioner households with low incomes are missing out on Pension Credit benefits they qualify for.

Pension Credit has two components. Guarantee Credit offers financial support to those with limited income (although savings over £10,000 may reduce eligibility), while Savings Credit is available only to those who reached State Pension age on or before April 5, 2016, and have some personal savings.

Guarantee Credit increases income to £218.15 for individuals and £332.95 for couples. Savings Credit provides an additional £17.01 for single individuals and £19.04 for couples. Additional amounts may be available for those who are disabled or serve as carers.

For more details, check out our comprehensive Pension Credit guide.

To apply, call the Pension Service on 0800 99 1234 or download an application form from the Gov.uk website.

Warm Home Discount – £150 off energy bills for some on Pension Credit

If you receive specific benefits in England and Wales, you could receive a £150 discount on your energy bills. Eligible individuals will automatically get this reduction between October 2024 and March 2025.

However, residents of Scotland will need to apply for this discount themselves.

To qualify, you must be receiving the Guarantee Credit part of Pension Credit and have high energy costs. In Scotland, you will need to meet the criteria set by your energy supplier to benefit from the scheme.

The Government has an online eligibility checker, so you can see whether to expect the payment.

Winter Fuel Payment – one-off payments to help with cost of heating

These are one-time payments ranging from £100 to £300, provided every winter to individuals over the state pension age who are receiving specific means-tested benefits, no matter the weather conditions.

If you’re currently claiming low-income benefits, the payment should be issued to you automatically. Alternatively, you can contact the Winter Fuel Payment helpline at 0800 731 0160. For complete details, refer to our Winter Fuel Payment guide.

State Pension – weekly benefit for those who have made National Insurance contributions

The State Pension is a government-run program supported by National Insurance contributions, providing individuals who have reached the official retirement age with a guaranteed weekly income.

Your State Pension amount will depend on whether you retired under the old or new system. For detailed information on how this works, check out our comprehensive State Pension guide.

If you’ve made the full number of National Insurance contributions—typically between 30 and 44 years, depending on your gender and age—you’ll receive around £221.20 per week as a single person. However, some individuals may receive a higher amount, while others could get less.

You should automatically receive a form four months before you reach State Pension age. If not, call 0800 731 7898 or download a form from the Gov.uk website.

Financial support after a death

Losing a close relative can be an incredibly difficult time emotionally and financially.

There is financial support available when someone close to you dies if you need help with the cost of a funeral, and into the future.

Bereavement Support Payment – means-tested support if your partner has passed away

If your partner passed away on or after 6 April 2017, you could be entitled to financial assistance. To qualify, your partner (whether a spouse, civil partner, or cohabiting partner) must have:

• Paid National Insurance contributions for a minimum of 25 weeks, OR
• Passed away due to a work accident or a disease caused by work

They must have been under the state pension age, and based in the UK (or another country that offers bereavement benefits).

You’ll get a one-off payment and then monthly payment for 18 months.

There are two different rates:

• Higher rate. A one-off payment of £3,500 and monthly payments of £350.
• Lower rate. A one-off payment of £2,500 and monthly payments of £100.

If you receive child benefit (or have eligibility but are not claiming it), you will qualify for the higher rate. If not, the lower rate applies, unless you were expecting a child when your partner passed away.

The Bereavement Support Payment does not impact your other benefits during the first year.

To apply, download a claim form from the Gov.uk website and apply via your local Jobcentre Plus. There’s a different process if you’re in Northern Ireland.

Co-habiting couples newly eligible

The Bereavement Support Payment was originally available only to married or civilly partnered parents when a spouse passed away.

However, as of February 9, unmarried parents who cohabit are now eligible for this support. This change comes after both the Supreme Court and High Court ruled that denying bereavement support to unmarried parents living together with a child violated their human rights.

For complete details on eligibility and more information, refer to our comprehensive Bereavement Support Payments guide.

Funeral Expenses Payment – support for funeral costs if you claim certain benefits

If you receive certain benefits and require assistance with funeral costs for your partner or child, you may be eligible to apply for a Funeral Expenses Payment.

This payment could also be available to you as a close relative or friend of the deceased, especially if the person did not have a partner at the time of death or if the partner or parent is unable to claim (for instance, if they are living abroad or incarcerated).

The Funeral Expenses Payment you receive will be subtracted from any inheritance you might get from the deceased (this includes money and property, but excludes the home or personal items left to a widow, widower, or civil partner).

This financial aid can cover expenses such as: burial or cremation fees, travel costs related to funeral arrangements or attendance, transportation of the body within the UK (for distances over 50 miles), and the costs of death certificates or other required documents.

Additionally, you may be eligible for up to £1,000 to cover extra funeral costs, such as the funeral director’s fees, flowers, or the coffin.

If the deceased had a pre-paid funeral plan, you may be eligible to claim up to £120 for costs not covered by the plan.

To make a claim, you must apply within six months of the funeral and provide an invoice or signed contract from the funeral director. Claims can be made either by calling the Bereavement Service helpline or by downloading and completing the claim form, which can be submitted by post.

For residents of Scotland, the Funeral Support Payment is available. Although this payment may not cover the entire funeral cost, it can assist with travel expenses, burial/cremation fees, and other funeral-related costs. The average payment is around £1,800, but the exact amount will depend on various factors. For more details, visit the MyGov.Scot website.

Some benefits are being replaced

As part of the Government’s efforts to make claiming benefits more streamlined, some benefits are being replaced (and some will no longer be available at all).

The main ones are the six ‘legacy benefits’ being replaced by Universal Credit.

• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Housing Benefit
• Child Tax Credit
• Working Tax Credit

If you’re currently receiving one of these benefits, expect to receive a letter informing you that it’s time to transition to Universal Credit through a process known as ‘managed migration.’ The letter will provide clear instructions to ensure a seamless transfer with no disruption in support. The Government aims to complete this managed migration by 2028.

You also have the option to switch to Universal Credit at any time. In some cases, people may find they are financially better off on Universal Credit compared to their previous benefits. However, this is not guaranteed, and choosing to transition early means you will forfeit some of the protections offered during the managed migration process.

To determine if you could receive more or less on Universal Credit, you can use our Benefits Calculator. Alternatively, check out our “Should I Switch to Universal Credit?” guide for a detailed comparison of the benefits and drawbacks of making the switch.

Where to get free help

If our calculator (or your personal research) indicates that you could qualify for benefits, you have the option to either submit a Universal Credit claim or, for other benefit types, visit the Gov.uk benefits website to find the most appropriate application method.

Check Citizens Advice for help applying

If you’re struggling to apply or still not sure you’re eligible for anything, you can go to a Citizens Advice bureau or one of the network of independent advice centres for a one-on-one detailed benefits check-up. Or call Citizens Advice’s ‘help to claim service’ on 0800 144 8 444.

And if you’ve serious money worries or debt problems…

This website offers various strategies to help you reduce expenses, but the best place to begin is with our Debt Problems Guide. No debt situation is beyond resolution, and this guide is designed to assist you in finding a way out.

If you’re also facing mental health challenges, there are specialized solutions available. For a comprehensive guide on managing debt while dealing with stress, working with banks, accessing free one-on-one debt counseling, and tailored advice for those with bipolar disorder or depression, be sure to check out our free Mental Health & Debt Help PDF booklet.