Guides

Answers to the questions people ask most about benefits and help with living costs in England. Each guide is written from official pages and reviewed by a person before it is published.

  • How to fix your energy tariff to lower winter bills

    You can protect your household from rising gas and electricity costs by locking in a fixed-rate energy deal before the cold weather arrives. Compare available offers from...

  • How to claim Universal Credit

    To start your application, you need to visit GOV.UK and set up an online account. You will need to provide details about your money, housing, and work, and prove who you...

  • What is Child Benefit and how to claim

    Child benefit is a regular payment designed to help parents and carers with the everyday costs of looking after children. You can claim if you are responsible for an elig...

  • How self-employment affects Universal Credit

    Running your own business while receiving state financial support means you must report your business money regularly. Your monthly payments depend on your actual earning...

  • What to do if you are facing redundancy

    If you are facing redundancy, your employer must follow a fair consultation process and choose staff objectively. You may be entitled to a notice period, redundancy pay,...

  • How to deal with Tax Credit overpayments

    If you have been told you owe money from past tax credits, you will need to check how to pay it back. Government departments will contact you with details of what you owe...

  • What is Carer's Credit

    Carer's Credit is a type of help that fills gaps in your National Insurance record if you look after someone. It helps protect your future retirement payments when you ar...

  • What help can I get with council care and support?

    You can look for help with care costs by speaking to your local council about carer assessments and care options. There are also welfare benefits and support schemes avai...

  • Extra financial help if you claim Universal Credit

    You might be able to get extra money on top of your standard monthly payment if you have children, a health condition, or high childcare costs. You will need to report ch...

  • Help with mortgage payments and arrears

    If you are struggling with your housing costs, you can look for help with mortgage payments by speaking to your lender early. There are various support options and govern...

  • What is the Breathing Space debt scheme?

    The breathing space scheme is a temporary government program in England that gives people time to get debt advice and make a plan. While you are in the scheme, most credi...

  • How to claim Personal Independence Payment

    To start your application, you can contact the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) by phone or post. You will need to fill out a form about how your condition affects...

  • Charitable grants and benevolent funds

    Charitable grants and benevolent funds provide independent financial support to people facing hardship. They are run by separate trusts rather than government bodies and...

  • How to get help with council tax bills

    You can check if you qualify for financial support if you are on a low income. You can apply for reductions and get advice through your local council.

  • Can I get free prescriptions and health costs?

    You might be able to get free prescriptions and help with other health costs depending on your personal circumstances, age, or if you receive certain benefits. This appli...

  • What to do if you are facing eviction

    If you are facing eviction, your landlord must follow strict legal steps and cannot force you out without a court order. You can get free eviction help from services like...

  • How to claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

    To get financial support for a long-term health condition, you can check your PIP eligibility by contacting the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). You will need to c...

  • How to deal with council tax arrears

    Facing council tax arrears can feel stressful, but you can talk to your local council early to set up a plan. You might also qualify for help with your bills if you are o...

  • How to apply for Council Tax Reduction

    To get help with your local bill, you need to apply directly through your local council. They will look at your household income and savings to see if you qualify for a r...

  • What are the rules on bank accounts and overdrafts?

    This applies to England. Managing your money safely involves choosing the right basic account, understanding how overdrafts function, and watching out for fraud. If you s...