Applying for benefits can seem daunting, especially if you’re already feeling worried or stressed. There are so many forms to fill in, and so much information to have at your fingertips. But you don’t have to do it on your own – there is help available. And we’ve put together some tips to help.
Before you apply, you might want to use entitledto’s benefits calculator to get an idea of what you may be entitled to.
Getting help applying for benefits
If you need help working out what you’re entitled to and how to apply, you can always get advice from the Money Talk Team. The Money Talk Team service is completely confidential, and won’t affect any support you’re already receiving.
Information you may need to provide
Before you apply, it’s a good idea to pull together as much information as you can about your financial situation. This will make it easier to fill in the forms. Here are some of the things you may need, depending on your situation:
- Information on any benefits you already receive – you should find this in your rewards letter or you can check your bank statement or online banking app
- Your payslip if you’re working – this will tell you things like how much you pay in National Insurance and pension contributions. You may be given a paper payslip, or it may be online. Ask your line manager if you aren’t sure.
- Information on any income you get from pensions and any savings you have – you should be able to find this in your bank statement or banking app.
- Information about your housing costs, like your rent or mortgage, gas and electricity bill, council tax, broadband and mobile. If you can’t find the bills you can probably find this information on your bank statement or in your banking app.
- Information about childcare costs.
- If you have a partner who lives with you, you’ll be assessed for benefits as a couple, so you’ll need to know these answers for them too. If you live with any other adults (like your parents or grown up children) you’ll need to know this information for them too – you can assure them that it’s confidential.
Tips for applying for benefits
Tip #1: Don't put it off
Tip #1: Don't put it off
Tip #2: Read the instructions
Tip #2: Read the instructions
Tip #3: Set aside enough time
Tip #3: Set aside enough time
Tip #4: Keep copies
Tip #4: Keep copies
Tip #5: Keep a record
Tip #5: Keep a record
Tip #6: Make sure everything you say when you apply is correct
Tip #6: Make sure everything you say when you apply is correct
Tip #7: Don't give up
Tip #7: Don't give up
Family Support Directory
Find more support for your finances from trusted organisations in our Family Support Directory.