Universal Credit (UC)
The DWP wants to encourage people who could be better off financially to consider moving to UC. They estimate that more than half of current claimants will be better off. For further information visit: What Universal Credit is
Pension Credit
This is one of the most under-claimed benefits by those of pension-age. If you are entitled to Pension Credit this can lead to additional help with Council Tax and free TV licences for over 75's. To check if you, or a family member might be entitled to Pension Credit, please go to: Pension Credit calculator
If you are receiving Pension Credit they'll be posting a letter to you between 16 and 22 August explaining how you can apply for support.
Extra support to help with rising bills will be offered to more than 2,300 South Kesteven pensioners who currently receive Pension Credit. Thanks to the Government's Household Support Fund (HSF) Lincolnshire County Council and partners will continue to share vital money to those in immediate need of help, because of the rising costs of food and energy.
Housing Benefit / Council Tax Support
If you are pension-age and live in rented accommodation and are on a low income you may be able to claim help with your rent. If you pay Council Tax and are on a low income you may be able to claim Council Tax Support. To check potential entitlement and to make a claim go to: Housing Benefits and Council Tax Support
Attendance Allowance
This helps with extra costs if you have a disability severe enough that you need someone to help look after you. It's paid at two different rates and how much you get depends on the level of care that you need because of your disability. You could get £61.85 or £92.40 a week to help with personal support if you're both:
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physically or mentally disabled
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State Pension age or older
It does not cover mobility needs.
Find out more about attendance allowance
General benefit advice - for all general benefits advice go to:
Benefit calculators - there are also various benefit calculators available which provide independent advice regarding benefits you may be entitled to:
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Benefits calculator and benefits advice - What benefits am I entitled to?
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Benefit calculators: what benefits can you get - Citizens Advice