THE government has launched a new tool to help you check if you can claim up to £12,600 in Universal Credit or other benefits.
The online tool is free to use and takes just a few minutes to complete.
The government has launched a new online tool to help you check if you can claim up to £12,600 in Universal Credit
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) said it’s launching the tool as 700,000 Brits on benefits could be eligible for additional support.
Meanwhile, many in low-paid work may not know they can claim Universal Credit, it added.
Universal Credit has replaced six other benefits with a single monthly payment if you are out of work or on low income.
Some households may be entitled to thousands of pounds a year depending on their individual circumstances.
For example, a couple living together with two children earning £7,350 a year could get £12,600 in Universal Credit – or £21,000 with housing costs, the DWP said.
Meanwhile, a single parent with one child earning £7,350 a year could get around £7,500 – or £14,000 with housing costs.
If you live by yourself, earn £7,350 a year and don’t have any kids, you could get around £300 – roughly £7,000 with housing costs.
Universal Credit claimants may also be eligible for more than £1,000 in child benefit, discretionary housing payments, disability living allowance, a council tax reduction as well as free school meals for children.
The easiest way to access these benefits is by claiming Universal Credit.
The new tool asks between five and ten questions about your current situation, and should only take up to three minutes to complete.
Will Quince, minister for welfare delivery, said: “Checking eligibility for Universal Credit is now easier than ever thanks to the launch of our benefits eligibility tool.
“If you are, you’ll also be able to receive additional benefits, such as half-price travel and childcare payments.”
“If you think you’re eligible to claim, please do check, so you can see what support you may be able to access.”
