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Maximising your income

If you are struggling to cover your bills, make sure you are claiming all the financial assistance you are entitled to. Don't forget many of you will have contributed through tax and national insurance. You can still claim even if you have not paid national insurance. Below are some of the most common benefits you can claim. 

Attendance Allowance
If you need assistance with personal care and are over 65, go to Direct.Gov - Attendance Allowance (This link will open in a new window)  

Carers Allowance
If you have someone in your home who needs care due to a disability and you do not work full time because they need your care, go to Direct.Gov - Carers Allowance (This link will open in a new window)

 Child Benefit
This is paid to all families with children under the age of 20, who are still in full time education (up to A level). Please go to HMRC - Child Benefit (This link will open in a new window)

 

There are many other awards. Some take into account your income and household, others don't. For a full list of awards and the criteria for claiming go to Direct.Gov - Main Page (This link will open in a new window)

Council awards
For information about:

• Free school meals (This link will open in a new window) , school transport (This link will open in a new window) and uniform allowances, or call 03456 009 009.
• Housing Benefit to help with rent and Council Tax Benefits, as well as Bus Passes for the over 60's or disabled and home improvement grants , or call 01883 722000.

Disability Living Allowance
If you need assistance with personal care, and/or getting around due to a disability.  You must be under 65 when you first claim. Claim at Direct.Gov - DLA (This link will open in a new window)

Employment and Support Allowance
(previously called Job Seekers Allowance and Incapacity Benefit).

• If you are out of work or working just a few hours. You can claim at your local Job Centre, or see Direct.Gov - ESA (This link will open in a new window)
• If you are unable to work due to sickness or disability. Claim at Direct.Gov - ESA (This link will open in a new window)

Pension Credits
These can be awarded to top up the basic, or no state pension and for pensioners with some savings.  Please see Direct.Gov - Pension Credit (This link will open in a new window)

Tax Credits
If you are on a low income you can get Tax Credits. These are paid in your salary by your employer, who is reimbursed by the government, or direct into your account if you do not work.  See Direct.Gov - Tax Credit (This link will open in a new window)

 

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