Can I get benefits as a student in England?
Full-time students in England can rarely claim standard welfare benefits unless they have children, live with an eligible partner, or have specific disabilities. However,...
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.
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Who can get the Winter Fuel Payment?
You may receive the Winter Fuel Payment if you were born on or before the qualifying birth date and live in England, Wales or Northern Ireland. The exact amount depends o...
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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...
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How to check if you need to opt out of Winter Fuel payments
If you receive help for your heating bills during the cold months, HM Revenue and Customs may collect the money back through your tax code if your earnings are high. You...
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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...
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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...
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Universal Credit housing costs and rent help
You might get help with your rent through the Universal Credit housing element if you are on a low income. This payment helps cover housing costs whether you rent from a...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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Help with mortgage arrears and avoiding repossession
If you are struggling with your payments, mortgage arrears help is available. You should contact your lender straight away to discuss your situation and look for flexible...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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.
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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...
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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...
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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...
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How to claim Disability Living Allowance for children
You can apply for Disability Living Allowance children by asking the DWP for a claim form. It helps with extra costs if your child needs more looking after or has trouble...
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How to get help with rent using Discretionary Housing Payments
If your regular financial support does not cover your full rent, you can apply for a discretionary housing payment through your local council. These funds provide extra s...
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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...
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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...