Understanding Benefits and Eligibility
Government benefits in the UK are designed to provide financial support to people in a range of situations, helping with living costs, health needs, housing, and caring responsibilities. Understanding what you might be entitled to can be complex, as eligibility depends on your personal circumstances – such as your age, income, savings, health conditions, employment status, and family situation.
There are several main types of benefits available. For example, Universal Credit is a payment to help with living costs for those on low income or out of work. If you have a disability or long-term health condition, you might qualify for benefits like Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Attendance Allowance. There is also support for carers, such as Carer’s Allowance, and help with housing costs through Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit.
It’s important to check your eligibility carefully, as the rules for each benefit are set out in government regulations and can change over time. Factors like your earnings, savings, immigration status, and the number of people in your household can all affect what you can claim. Some benefits are means-tested, which means your income and savings are taken into account, while others are based on your health or caring responsibilities.
Many people are entitled to more than one benefit at the same time, and certain benefits can overlap or complement each other. For example, you might receive both Universal Credit and a disability benefit if you meet the criteria for both. However, some benefits cannot be claimed together, or may affect the amount you receive from another source.
To make sure you’re not missing out on support, it’s a good idea to use official tools and resources to check your entitlement. These tools can help you work out which benefits you may be eligible for and how to apply. If you’re unsure, getting advice can help you understand your options and the application process.
For a broader overview of the UK benefits system and how different types of support fit together, you can read more about benefits. This can help you get a better understanding of the range of support available and how the system works as a whole.
Main Types of Benefits You May Be Eligible For
Main Types of Benefits You May Be Eligible For
The UK benefits system is designed to support people in a wide range of circumstances, whether you are out of work, living with a disability, caring for someone, or on a low income. Understanding which benefits you may be eligible for depends on your personal situation, such as your age, employment status, health, and family circumstances. Below is an overview of the main categories of benefits, who they are intended for, and how they might apply to you.
Universal Credit
Universal Credit is a means-tested benefit for people who are on a low income or out of work. It replaces several older benefits, including Jobseeker’s Allowance, Housing Benefit, and Tax Credits. Universal Credit is available to people aged 18 and over (with some exceptions for 16-17 year olds in certain situations), and you must have less than £16,000 in savings. It is paid monthly and can help with living costs, housing, and childcare.
Example: If you’ve recently lost your job or your earnings have dropped, you may be able to claim Universal Credit to help cover your living expenses.
Disability and Sickness Benefits
If you have a disability or a long-term health condition that affects your daily life, you may be entitled to specific benefits. The main ones include:
Personal Independence Payment (PIP): For people aged 16 to State Pension age who need help with daily living or mobility due to a disability or health condition.
Attendance Allowance: For people over State Pension age who need help with personal care because of physical or mental disability.
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA): For those who are unable to work due to illness or disability.
Example: If you have a chronic illness that prevents you from working full-time, you might qualify for ESA or PIP.
Benefits for Families and Children
There are several benefits aimed at supporting families, particularly those with children:
Child Benefit: Available to most people responsible for children under 16 (or under 20 if they stay in approved education or training).
Child Tax Credit (for existing claimants): This is being replaced by Universal Credit, but some people still receive it.
Sure Start Maternity Grant: A one-off payment to help with the costs of having a child, available to those on certain benefits.
Example: If you are a parent or guardian of a child and your household has a low income, you may be eligible for Child Benefit and Universal Credit.
Housing Benefits and Support
Help with housing costs is available for those who are renting and on a low income:
Housing Benefit: Now mainly for people who have reached State Pension age or live in supported, sheltered, or temporary housing. Most others should claim housing support through Universal Credit.
Council Tax Reduction: If you are on a low income or claim benefits, you may get help with paying your Council Tax.
Example: If you are struggling to pay your rent or Council Tax, you may qualify for support through these schemes.
Benefits for Carers
If you look after someone who has substantial caring needs, you may be eligible for:
Carer’s Allowance: For people who spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone receiving certain disability benefits.
Carer’s Credit: A National Insurance credit for people caring for someone for at least 20 hours a week.
Example: If you are caring for a family member or friend who is disabled, you might be able to claim Carer’s Allowance.
Pension Age Benefits
For those who have reached State Pension age, there are additional supports:
State Pension: A regular payment if you have paid or been credited with enough National Insurance contributions.
Pension Credit: An income-related benefit to top up your weekly income if it’s below a certain amount.
Winter Fuel Payment and Cold Weather Payment: Help with heating costs during the winter.
Example: If you are retired and your income is low, Pension Credit can provide extra financial support.
Other Support
There are also benefits and one-off payments for specific situations, such as bereavement support, support for those looking for work, and help with emergency expenses.
Each benefit has its own eligibility rules, set out in laws such as the Welfare Reform Act 2012 for Universal Credit, the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992 for disability and sickness benefits, and the Child Benefit (General) Regulations 2006 for Child Benefit. It’s important to check the specific requirements for each benefit to see if you qualify.
If you’re unsure which benefits apply to your circumstances, start by considering your age, health, family situation, employment status, and income. This will help you identify the benefits most relevant to you and guide your next steps in checking your entitlement.
Universal Credit
Universal Credit
Universal Credit is a key government benefit designed to support people on a low income or those who are out of work. It helps with living costs and can also provide extra support if you have children, a disability, or need help with housing expenses. Universal Credit is paid monthly and replaces several older benefits, making the system simpler and easier to manage.
What Does Universal Credit Cover?
Universal Credit combines several types of financial support into a single monthly payment. It can help with:
Basic living costs: Money to help you pay for essentials like food, bills, and other everyday expenses.
Housing costs: Support towards your rent or some service charges if you rent your home.
Children: Extra payments if you have children living with you.
Disability or health conditions: Additional amounts if you have a disability or health condition that limits your ability to work.
Who Can Get Universal Credit?
Eligibility for Universal Credit depends on your personal circumstances. The main factors include:
Your income and savings: There are limits on how much you can earn or have in savings. Generally, you must have less than £16,000 in savings.
Household situation: Whether you live alone, as a couple, or with children can affect your claim.
Work status: You can claim if you’re out of work, unable to work, or on a low income. Some people who work part-time may also qualify.
Age and residency: You must be over 18 (with some exceptions for 16-17 year olds) and live in the UK.
Universal Credit is means-tested, which means the amount you get depends on your income and circumstances. There are specific rules if you’re self-employed, a student, or have caring responsibilities.
Universal Credit Replaces Older Benefits
Universal Credit has replaced several older benefits, known as “legacy benefits.” These include:
Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Income Support
Child Tax Credit
Working Tax Credit
Housing Benefit
If you’re currently receiving any of these legacy benefits, you may be moved to Universal Credit. In most cases, you cannot make a new claim for the old benefits and will need to apply for Universal Credit instead.
How to Check Your Entitlement
Understanding whether you qualify and how much you might receive can be complex. To find out more about eligibility, how to claim, and what information you’ll need to provide, visit our detailed guide on Universal Credit.
You can also get practical advice and check your eligibility using trusted resources like Universal Credit, which explains who can claim and what to expect during the application process.
If you’re unsure about your situation or how changes in your circumstances might affect your claim, it’s always a good idea to seek advice before applying. This can help you avoid delays and make sure you get all the support you’re entitled to.
Disability Benefits
If you have a disability or a long-term health condition that affects your daily life or mobility, you may be entitled to financial support through disability benefits. These benefits are designed to help with the extra costs of living with a disability or health problem, whether you need help with everyday tasks, getting around, or require supervision.
The main disability benefits in the UK include Personal Independence Payment (PIP)](https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/wales/benefits/sick-or-disabled-people-and-carers-in-wales/pip/), Disability Living Allowance (DLA), and [Attendance Allowance. Each benefit has different eligibility criteria, age requirements, and application processes.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP):
PIP is for people aged 16 to State Pension age who have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability. It is not means-tested, so your income or savings do not affect your eligibility. PIP is made up of two components: daily living and mobility. You may qualify for one or both, depending on how your condition affects your ability to carry out everyday activities or move around. The amount you receive depends on the level of help you need, which is assessed through a points-based system and usually involves a medical assessment. For detailed information on eligibility, how to apply, and what to expect from the assessment, visit Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
Disability Living Allowance (DLA):
DLA is being replaced by PIP for adults, but some people still receive it, especially children under 16. If you already claim DLA as an adult, your claim may eventually be transferred to PIP. DLA provides support for those who have personal care or mobility needs due to a disability or health condition. To check if you are still eligible or to learn more about how DLA works, see Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for adults.
Attendance Allowance:
If you are over State Pension age and need help with personal care or supervision due to a disability or illness, you may be able to claim Attendance Allowance. This benefit is not means-tested and can help you stay independent for longer. For more details on who can claim, what counts as needing care, and how to apply, visit Attendance Allowance.
How Eligibility Is Decided
Eligibility for disability benefits is based on how your condition affects your daily life and mobility, rather than the condition itself. You will usually need to provide medical evidence and may be asked to attend an assessment. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) uses specific criteria and descriptors to decide if you qualify and at what rate.
To find out more about the different types of disability benefits, the eligibility rules, and how to start your claim, visit our dedicated page. This will help you understand which benefits are available and guide you through the next steps. If you need support with your application or understanding the criteria, there are organisations that can offer advice and assistance.
Carer’s Benefits
Caring for someone with a disability or long-term illness can be both rewarding and challenging. If you spend a significant amount of time looking after another person, you may be entitled to extra financial support through carer’s benefits. These benefits are designed to recognise the vital role carers play and help ease the financial pressures that can come with caring responsibilities.
What Are Carer’s Benefits?
Carer’s benefits provide financial assistance if you regularly care for someone who is ill or disabled. The main benefit available is Carer’s Allowance, but you might also be eligible for extra support through other benefits or top-ups, depending on your circumstances.
Who Can Get Carer’s Benefits?
To qualify for carer’s benefits, you usually need to:
Spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone. This care can include helping with washing, cooking, managing medication, or taking the person to medical appointments.
Care for someone who receives certain disability benefits, such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA) at the middle or highest care rate, or Attendance Allowance.
Meet other eligibility rules, such as age, immigration status, and not earning more than a set amount from work (after certain deductions).
You do not have to be related to or live with the person you care for, but you must provide regular, unpaid care.
Types of Support Available
The main carer’s benefit is Carer’s Allowance. This is a weekly payment to help with your living costs if you meet the eligibility criteria. If you get Carer’s Allowance, it could also increase the amount you receive from other benefits, such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit, through a carer’s element or premium.
It’s important to know that claiming Carer’s Allowance can affect the benefits of the person you care for, so it’s worth checking how your claim might impact their support.
Common Questions
Can I work and still get carer’s benefits?
Yes, but there is an earnings limit. You can work, but your net earnings (after tax, National Insurance, and some expenses) must not exceed a set threshold each week.
Can I claim if I’m already receiving a state pension or other benefits?
You can apply, but you may not receive the full Carer’s Allowance if you already get certain other benefits. However, you may still gain an ‘underlying entitlement’, which could increase your means-tested benefits.
What if more than one person cares for the same individual?
Only one carer can claim Carer’s Allowance for looking after the same person at any one time.
How to Check Your Entitlement
Eligibility for carer’s benefits depends on your individual circumstances. Make sure you review the requirements for Carer’s Allowance and consider how your income, working hours, and the benefits received by the person you care for might affect your claim.
If you think you might qualify, it’s a good idea to gather details about your caring role and the benefits your loved one receives before starting an application. This will help you check your entitlement and make the process smoother.
Carer’s benefits are just one type of support available – exploring your full range of options can help ensure you get the help you need.
Help with Housing Costs
If you’re struggling to cover your rent or mortgage, there are several types of financial support available in the UK to help with housing costs. The main options include Housing Benefit, the housing element of Universal Credit, and discretionary housing payments. The type and amount of support you can get depend on your income, savings, and individual housing situation.
Housing Benefit is designed to help people on a low income pay their rent. While it’s mostly closed to new applicants (except in certain circumstances, such as if you’re over State Pension age or living in supported accommodation), many people still receive it. Most new claimants will instead apply for Universal Credit.
Universal Credit includes a housing element to help with rent payments. If you’re eligible for Universal Credit, the amount you receive for housing costs is based on your actual rent (up to a maximum set by the Local Housing Allowance), your income, savings, and who lives with you. If you have a mortgage, Universal Credit may provide support for interest payments through the Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI) scheme, but this is a loan that must be repaid if you sell your home.
Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs) are extra payments that your local council can provide if you need more help with housing costs and already receive Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit. DHPs are intended for short-term support, such as if you’re struggling due to a sudden change in circumstances or facing a shortfall in your rent.
Eligibility for these benefits depends on several factors:
Income and savings: Generally, the less you have, the more support you may get. There are savings limits – usually, you can’t get help if you have more than £16,000 in savings (unless you receive Pension Credit Guarantee Credit).
Housing situation: The rules differ depending on whether you rent privately, rent from a council or housing association, or have a mortgage.
Household circumstances: Who lives with you, whether you have children, disabilities, or caring responsibilities, can all affect what you’re entitled to.
If you need more detailed advice about your options, you can read about help with paying rent, which covers your rights and the different types of support available. For a broader overview of all the ways you can get help with housing, including support for homeowners and renters, visit our dedicated page.
Understanding your rights and what you can claim is important – rules can change depending on your circumstances, so it’s a good idea to check regularly or seek advice if your situation changes.
Benefits for Families and Children
Families with children can access a range of government benefits designed to help with the costs of raising a family. The main types of support include Child Benefit and tax credits. Your eligibility for these benefits depends on factors such as the number of children you have, your household income, and your specific circumstances.
Child Benefit is available to most people responsible for bringing up a child under 16 (or under 20 if they stay in approved education or training). There is no limit to the number of children you can claim for, but if you or your partner earn over £50,000 a year, you may have to pay a tax charge known as the High Income Child Benefit Charge. Child Benefit is paid every four weeks and can help with everyday living costs.
Tax credits – specifically Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit – are being replaced by Universal Credit for most new claimants. However, if you are already receiving tax credits, you may continue to do so until you are moved over to Universal Credit. These credits provide additional financial support based on your income, the number of children you have, and whether you work.
To claim Child Benefit, you need to fill out a specific form and provide relevant documents, such as your child’s birth certificate. For a step-by-step guide, see the application process for Child Benefit.
If you’re not sure which benefits you can get, or if you want more detailed guidance about financial help for families, visit our section on help if you have children. This resource explains other types of support, such as free school meals, Healthy Start vouchers, and childcare assistance, and provides advice for different family situations, including single parents and carers.
Eligibility rules and the amount you can receive may change depending on your circumstances. It’s important to check the latest government guidelines and keep your information up to date to make sure you’re receiving the support you’re entitled to.
Benefits for Older People
If you’re over State Pension age, you may be entitled to extra financial support through benefits designed specifically for older people. These benefits help top up your income and cover additional costs if you need care or support because of age-related health issues.
One of the main forms of support is Pension Credit. Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit for people who have reached State Pension age and are on a low income. It’s made up of two parts: Guarantee Credit, which tops up your weekly income to a minimum level set by the government, and Savings Credit, which offers extra money if you’ve saved some money towards your retirement. Even if you own your home or have some savings, you could still be eligible, so it’s worth checking your entitlement. Pension Credit can also open the door to other help, such as free NHS dental treatment, help with housing costs, and a free TV licence if you’re over 75.
If you have a disability or health condition that means you need help with personal care, you might qualify for Attendance Allowance. Attendance Allowance is not means-tested, so your income and savings won’t affect your eligibility. It’s available if you have reached State Pension age and need assistance with daily activities, such as washing, dressing, or getting around safely. The amount you receive depends on the level of help you need, and you don’t have to have a carer or spend the money on care services – it’s up to you how you use it.
These benefits are governed by specific rules set out in UK legislation, including the State Pension Credit Act 2002 and the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992. Eligibility often depends on your personal circumstances, such as your age, income, savings, and care needs.
If you’re unsure which benefits you can claim, it’s a good idea to review the criteria for Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance in detail. Checking your entitlement could make a real difference to your finances and help you access extra support as you get older.
Employment-Related Benefits
Employment-related benefits are designed to support people whose income or ability to work is affected by their employment situation. These benefits can provide financial help if you’re out of work, off sick, or earning a low wage. The type and amount of support you can get will depend on your recent work history, your current employment status, and how much you earn.
One of the main employment-related benefits is Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA). This benefit is available to people who are actively looking for work. To qualify, you usually need to have paid enough National Insurance contributions in recent years and meet other criteria. If you want to check your eligibility for Jobseeker’s Allowance, you can find more information about what’s required. For a full guide to how JSA works, including how to apply and how much you could receive, visit the official Jobseekers Allowance page from GOV.UK.
If you are employed but unable to work due to illness, you may be entitled to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP). This is a legal minimum amount your employer must pay you if you’re off work sick for more than four days in a row. You must be classed as an employee and earn at least £123 per week (before tax) to qualify. You can read more about your rights and how to claim on the Statutory Sick Pay page on GOV.UK.
There are also other forms of employment benefits that may be available, such as support for people on low incomes or those who need help with childcare costs. The rules for each benefit can vary, so it’s important to check the specific requirements for your situation.
If you’re unsure which employment-related benefits you might be eligible for, it can be helpful to use a benefits calculator or speak to a specialist adviser. Checking your entitlement regularly is a good idea, as your circumstances or the rules may change over time.
How to Check Your Benefits Eligibility
How to Check Your Benefits Eligibility
Understanding which benefits you can claim can be confusing, but following a clear process can help you find out what support is available for your situation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to checking your benefits eligibility in the UK:
1. Gather Your Personal Information
Before you start, it’s important to collect details about your circumstances. This will make the process quicker and ensure you get accurate results. You’ll need information such as:
Your income: This includes wages, self-employment earnings, pensions, and any other regular payments.
Savings and investments: Many benefits, like Universal Credit or Pension Credit, have rules about how much you can have in savings.
Housing situation: Are you renting, paying a mortgage, or living with family? The amount of rent or mortgage payments can affect what you’re entitled to.
Household details: Who lives with you? Their age, relationship to you, and whether they have income can all matter.
Health conditions or disabilities: If you or someone in your household has a long-term health condition or disability, you may be eligible for additional support like Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Attendance Allowance.
Immigration status: Some benefits have residency or immigration requirements, so have details of your status if relevant.
2. Use Online Eligibility Checkers
The government provides official online tools to help you check which benefits you can get. These checkers ask you questions about your circumstances and use up-to-date rules set out in laws like the Welfare Reform Act 2012 and the Universal Credit Regulations 2013. They cover a wide range of benefits, including:
Universal Credit
Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
Housing Benefit
Child Benefit and Child Tax Credit
Carer’s Allowance
Pension Credit
By entering your details, you’ll get a personalised list of benefits you may be able to claim, and an estimate of how much you could receive. These tools are confidential and don’t affect any current claims.
3. Review the Results and Check the Rules
Once you’ve used a checker, read through the results carefully. Each benefit has its own eligibility criteria, based on age, income, savings, health, and family circumstances. For example:
Universal Credit is available to most people on a low income, but your savings must usually be under £16,000.
PIP is based on how your condition affects your daily life, not your income or savings.
Housing Benefit is generally only available if you’re pension age or living in supported or temporary accommodation.
The eligibility rules are set out in government regulations, so it’s important to check the details for each benefit.
4. Seek Advice if You’re Unsure
Benefits rules can be complicated, especially if your situation is unusual or has recently changed (for example, if you’ve lost your job, become unwell, or your family circumstances have changed). If you’re not sure what you’re entitled to, or if you need help with an application, it’s a good idea to speak to a trained adviser.
Charities, local councils, and independent organisations can offer free and confidential advice. They can help you:
Understand complex rules or appeal a decision.
Check your entitlement if you have a change in circumstances.
Fill in forms or gather supporting evidence.
Make sure you’re not missing out on any support.
5. Keep Your Information Up to Date
Your eligibility for benefits can change if your income, savings, or living situation changes. It’s important to keep records and update your details with the relevant authorities to avoid overpayments or missing out on support.
Common Questions
Do I need to be unemployed to claim benefits?
No, many benefits support people in work on a low income, as well as those who are unemployed, carers, or unable to work due to illness or disability.
Will checking my eligibility affect my credit score or existing benefits?
No, using an eligibility checker is confidential and has no impact on your credit score or current benefit claims.
What if I’m turned down for a benefit?
You can usually ask for a decision to be reconsidered or appeal. An adviser can help you with this process.
By following these steps, you can get a clearer idea of what financial support is available and how to apply for the right benefits for your needs.
Applying for Benefits
When you decide to apply for government benefits in the UK, it’s important to understand the process and what’s required at each stage. Although each benefit has its own rules, most applications follow a similar path.
Getting Started: What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather all the information and supporting documents you’ll need. This usually includes your National Insurance number, proof of identity, details of your income and savings, information about your living situation, and any relevant medical or disability evidence if you’re applying for health-related support. Providing accurate and up-to-date information is essential – mistakes or missing documents can delay your claim or affect the outcome.
How to Apply
Most benefits can be applied for online through government portals, which is often the quickest way. Some benefits also allow you to apply by phone or, in certain circumstances, in person at a local Jobcentre Plus or council office. Each benefit has its own application method and form, so it’s important to check the specific steps for the benefit you’re interested in.
For example, if you’re claiming Child Benefit, you’ll need to follow the application process for Child Benefit, which explains exactly what information to provide and how to submit your claim.
After You Apply: What Happens Next?
Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll usually receive a confirmation and an estimated timeline for a decision. The relevant department may contact you for more information or to clarify details. Decisions are typically sent by letter or email, explaining whether your claim has been approved and how much you’ll receive.
If your application is unsuccessful or you disagree with the decision, you have the right to challenge it. This is known as asking for a ‘mandatory reconsideration’. If you’re still not satisfied after this review, you can appeal to an independent tribunal. It’s important to act quickly, as there are strict deadlines for appeals.
Getting Help With Your Application
Applying for benefits can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially if your situation is complex or if you’re unsure what you’re entitled to. If you need help, you can speak to benefits advisers who offer free and confidential support. They can help you understand your rights, check your eligibility, and guide you through the process to make sure you don’t miss out on any support you’re entitled to.
Taking care to follow the correct process and provide full, accurate information will help your application go as smoothly as possible. If you’re unsure about anything, seeking advice early can make a real difference.
Other Support and Related Benefits
Alongside the main government benefits such as Universal Credit, there are several other types of support you may be entitled to, depending on your circumstances. These additional benefits can help you manage specific needs or cope with changes in your life, and are designed to complement your main financial support.
For example, if you have a disability or long-term health condition, you may be able to get extra help with transport costs. This could include schemes like the Blue Badge for parking, discounted travel passes, or help with the cost of getting to medical appointments. These forms of support can make it easier to access work, healthcare, and community activities, helping you stay independent.
If you have recently lost a loved one, you might be eligible for bereavement benefits. These benefits can provide financial assistance to help you cope with the immediate costs following a death, or ongoing support if you were financially dependent on the person who has died. The rules for bereavement benefits are set out in the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992 and related regulations, and eligibility often depends on your relationship to the deceased and their National Insurance record.
These types of support are not usually automatic – you typically need to apply and provide evidence of your circumstances. They are designed to work alongside your main benefits, ensuring that you receive a comprehensive package of help tailored to your needs. If you think you might qualify for extra support, it’s a good idea to check the eligibility criteria and make an application as soon as possible.
Exploring these additional benefits can make a real difference to your finances and wellbeing, especially during challenging times or when facing extra costs. For more details on each type of support, follow the links above to see what you could claim.
