Extra financial help if you claim Universal Credit

What extra money you can get with Universal Credit

If you receive money for living costs, you might be able to get additional cash on top of your standard monthly payment. Finding extra help with Universal Credit can make a big difference to your household budget. This applies to England. The government provides extra amounts for specific household situations, but these are not added automatically. You must tell the DWP if your circumstances change so they can check your entitlement.

• Having children live with you
• Paying for registered childcare while you work
• Living with a long-term health condition or disability

To find out exactly how much you could receive, you can use the official benefit estimator on GOV.UK. You can also read more about Universal Credit to understand how your monthly amount is calculated based on your earnings and savings.

Help with health and travel costs

Having a health condition can change how much financial support you receive. If your health affects your ability to work, you should report this to your work coach as soon as possible. You may then be asked to complete a detailed health assessment to understand your situation better.

Depending on the outcome of your assessment, you might qualify for an additional monthly amount for having a limited capability for work. Check GOV.UK to see the current rates and rules for health-related benefit additions.

Extra financial support when starting work

Moving into employment or increasing your working hours can bring new financial challenges and opportunities. If you are working and using registered childcare, you can claim back a large portion of your childcare costs. This includes nurseries, childminders, breakfast clubs, and after-school holiday clubs.

1. Pay your childcare provider up front for the services you use.
2. Keep your receipts and report your paid costs securely through your online account.
3. Claim back a percentage of your costs as part of your regular monthly payment.

If you need support to help pay your childcare costs up front before you receive your payback, talk to your work coach after you have made your claim.

Help with council tax and housing costs

Housing expenses and local taxes can take up a large part of your monthly budget. While your main payment can help with your rent if you rent your home, you should also look into local council schemes for your council tax bill.

Your local council runs reduction schemes that can lower your council tax bill if you are on a low income. You must apply to your local council directly for this help, as it is managed separately from your main benefit payment. You can find more details about Council Tax Reduction on your council's website.

More ways to get extra help with Universal Credit

Finding all the available support can seem tricky when you are managing your household budget. To secure extra help with Universal Credit, it is vital to keep your online journal updated with any changes in your life.

• Reporting a new baby or a child starting school
• Starting to care for an elderly or disabled relative
• Moving home or experiencing a change in your rent

Always check official guidance on GOV.UK or speak with your work coach during your regular appointments to ensure you are not missing out on any support you might qualify for.