Benefits explained

Some benefits are managed across the country by the government. There are also some local benefits or grants delivered by your district or county council.

Universal Credit

Universal Credit provides monthly payments that help with everyday living costs. It may be available if you are on a low income, unemployed, unable to work, or working but earning a low wage. Universal Credit can include help with housing costs and childcare costs.

If you receive the housing cost element of Universal Credit, this will be paid directly to you, and you will be responsible for using it to pay your rent. If you are a council tenant, you or your district council may request that your Universal Credit payment is paid directly to the council. If you would like to learn more about this, please speak with your rent officer.

You can apply for Universal Credit online. If you cannot claim online, you can claim by phone through the Universal Credit helpline or contact your local Citizens Advice for free, impartial and confidential advice.

Check your eligibility and apply on Gov.UK

Pension Credit

Pension Credit helps people over State Pension age with a low income. It can top up your weekly income and may help you qualify for additional support, such as help with energy costs, housing costs, Council Tax, dental care and a free TV licence if your are over the age of 75. On average, it can be worth £3,900 per year.

Many eligible people do not claim Pension Credit, so it is worth checking.

Check your eligibility and apply on Gov.UK

Disability and caring benefits:

If you are living with a disability or health condition, you might be eligible for additional financial help, such as:

more Universal Credit or not have to look for work while you get Universal Credit
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
Attendance Allowance
New Style Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

You may also get support with vehicles and transport, including exemption from paying vehicle tax, parking benefits (Blue Badge), a disabled person's buss pass or railcard, and help to buy or lease a car.

Find out more:

Citizens Advice: support if you are sick or disabled

Gov.uk browse disability benefits

Access to work

If you need support to find or stay in employment, you may be able to get an Access to Work grant to pay for equipment, adaptations, support services, travel arrangements and communication support.

Vat relief

If you have a disability or long-term health condition you can get VAT relief on some products that are designed or adapted for personal or household use.

If you care for someone

Carer’s Allowance is a weekly payment for people who provide at least 35 hours of unpaid care per week to someone receiving a qualifying disability benefit.

Carer’s Element is an additional amount added to a Universal Credit claim for eligible carers.

Explore support:

You may also be able to get local support. See information about benefits or grants delivered by your county or district council below.