Benefits commonly missed out on
Only for people of pension age
Pension Credit – The government estimate that 1.7 million people miss out on an average of £31 per week in Pension Credit. For more details, either contact Welfare Advice Service or get more details about the criteria for claiming Pension Credit here
Only for people of working age
Tax Credits – The government estimate that 4 out of 5 low paid workers without children miss out on an average of £38 per week in Tax Credits. For more details, either contact Welfare Advice Service or get more details about the criteria for claiming Working Tax Credit here
For people who pay rent
Housing Benefit – The government estimate that half of the working families in the UK don’t claim an average of £37.60 per week in Housing Benefit. For more details, either contact Welfare Advice Service or get more details about the criteria for claiming Housing Benefit here
For people who pay Council Tax
Council Tax Benefit – This is the most frequently unclaimed benefit, as people believe that the rules mean they won’t qualify when they often will. For more details, either contact Welfare Advice Service or get more details about the criteria for claiming Council Tax Benefit here
Please note that from April 2013, Council Tax Benefit will be replaced with a local Council Tax Support scheme run by each individual local council.
For people with non-dependant household members
Second Adult Rebate – This is a form of Council Tax Benefit that you may be entitled to if you have someone else on a low income live with you. This could be someone like an adult son or daughter or older relative. For more details, either contact Welfare Advice Service or get more details about the criteria for claiming Second Adult Rebate here
Going back to work?
Starting a new job doesn't mean you are not entitled to anything. For more details, contact Welfare Advice Service
Other benefits available
Attendance Allowance - for pension age people who have difficulty with activities
Bereavement Allowance - for people whose partner has passed away