There are a range of different social security benefits available which could increase the amount of money you have coming in. Millions of pounds in benefits go unclaimed each year, so make sure you are claiming all you are entitled to.
You may be able to claim:
Benefits such as Retirement Pension and Incapacity Benefit are based on National Insurance contributions you have made.
Benefits such as Child Benefit and Disability Living Allowance, which are based on your needs.
Means Tested Benefits. You do not need to have paid National Insurance contributions to claim these. The amount you get depends on how much money you have coming into your home. These benefits, such as Income Support and the Tax Credits top up any income you already have.
If you work full time:
Family Tax Credit
Child Benefit
Council Tax Benefit
Help from the Social Fund
Working Tax Credit
Housing Benefit
Health Benefits
If you are unemployed/working part time:
Jobseekers Allowance
Council Tax Benefit
Help from the Social Fund
Child Benefit
Fact Sheet Benefits
Housing Benefit
Health Benefits
Income Support
Family Tax Credit
If you are sick or disabled:
Incapacity Benefit
Disability Living Allowance
Attendance Allowance
Housing Benefit
Help from the Social Fund
Income Support
Disability Working Allowance
Severe Disablement Allowance
Council Tax Benefit
If you are elderly:
Retirement Pension
Housing Benefit
Help from the Social Fund
Income Support
Council Tax Benefit
Pensioners Tax Credit
This can be used as a rough checklist of the main benefits that you may apply for.
Health Benefits can cover all or some of the cost of prescriptions, dental treatment, glasses and hospital fees.
The Social Fund may be able to help you pay for items that can't be met from your regular income.
Housing Benefit is payable to those who are responsible for paying rent or ground rent.