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.

  • 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...

  • Can I get help with council tax?

    You might be able to lower your council tax bill through various support schemes run by your local council. Depending on your income, household, or disability, you could...

  • What is Personal Independence Payment (PIP)?

    Personal independence payment is a regular financial support scheme designed to assist people with long-term health conditions or disabilities that affect everyday tasks....

  • How to apply for Attendance Allowance

    If you need extra support because of a physical or mental health condition, you can apply for Attendance Allowance. This financial help is available for older people in E...

  • How to get help with the cost of living

    You can find cost of living support in England through regular government benefits, council schemes, and help with bills. While automatic cash payments have ended, you ma...

  • How to apply for Support for Mortgage Interest

    Support for Mortgage Interest is a government loan to help eligible homeowners with their mortgage interest payments. You must receive a qualifying benefit to apply. You...

  • Can I claim Carer's Allowance?

    If you regularly look after someone who has high support needs, you might be able to get extra money. Carer's Allowance eligibility depends on how many hours you spend ca...

  • How to deal with debt and get free advice

    Finding reliable debt advice can help you regain control of your money. You can speak to free, independent services to explore your options and talk to the people you owe...

  • How to apply for Universal Credit

    Universal Credit is a monthly payment to help with living costs if you are on a low income or out of work. You can check your Universal Credit eligibility and start your...

  • How to get help with energy and heating costs

    If you are struggling with your bills, you can access various schemes and local funds. Check GOV.UK and speak to your local council to see what support you can get.

  • Getting help with problem debt

    Finding reliable help with debt can feel overwhelming, but professional support is available. You can speak to approved advisers who offer free, confidential guidance to...

  • What is Personal Independence Payment (PIP)?

    Personal Independence Payment PIP is a regular benefit designed to help with extra living costs if a long-term health condition makes everyday tasks or getting around dif...

  • How Universal Credit works when you are working

    You can receive financial support while working part-time, full-time, or running your own business. Your monthly payment adjusts based on what you earn, gradually reducin...

  • Help with energy bills and energy saving

    If you need energy bills help, you can check for government support schemes, local council grants, and energy-saving improvements. You can also speak to Citizens Advice o...

  • Emergency grants and financial help in a crisis

    If you are facing a severe money crisis, you can look for emergency financial help through local council support schemes and hardship funds. Various options exist to help...

  • What is Income Support and who can get it?

    Income Support is a type of financial help for people on a low income. Income Support eligibility depends on your personal circumstances, your household money, and whethe...

  • What to do if you are facing redundancy

    If you are facing job loss, you can find redundancy help by understanding your rights and checking what support is available. You can contact government agencies like the...

  • How to get a Universal Credit advance

    If you need money urgently while waiting for your first benefit payment, you can apply for a universal credit advance. You can request this online through your account, b...

  • How to apply for Universal Credit

    To apply for Universal Credit, you need to set up an online account on GOV.UK and fill out the claim form. You will need information about your housing, money, and work....

  • Am I affected by the benefit cap?

    The benefit cap is a limit on the total financial support you can receive from the government. It affects many working-age households in England, though certain health co...