Entitled to benefits?

If you are entitled to benefits then claim them! But the converse is true. Don't claim any benefits under false pretences.

You may be unaware of the various benefits that could be available to you, even if you have a reasonably high income! These benefits include:

Job Seekers Allowance for those who are unemployed or have been made redundant.
Tax Credits if you have children or are working but you have a low income.
Income Support for some people on a low income.
Incapacity Benefit various qualifying criteria. From Autumn 2008, those who are incapable of work will claim Employment and Support Allowance.
Special needs? Disability Living Allowance might be available.
Maintenance from absent parent? - the new Child Maintenance Enforcement Commission may be able to help you to get support payments.
Income tax - If you think that you might be paying too much Income Tax then check if your tax code is correct.
Are you a Carer? You may be entitled to various benefits.
Housing benefit/Local Housing Allowance - depends upon income, check with your local council.
Council Tax benefit or reductions - depends upon income, again check with your local council.
Cold Weather payments - for those on certain benefits as well as Pension Credit. Payments should be automatic. Check with your local council if you qualify.
Warm Front Scheme - To help those on certain benefits to reduce heating costs
Winter Fuel Payments - To help people over 60 with fuel costs. Payments should be automatic. Check with your local council if you qualify.
Independent Living Fund (ILF) - The ILF is open to applications from severely disabled people who meet its eligibility criteria and are permanent residents of the United Kingdom
Armed Forces Compensation Scheme - Previously known as the 'War Pension Scheme'. Various qualifying criteria
Television Licences - 50% reduction in the TV licence fee if a member of the household is registered blind. For those over 75 the television licence is free for the service user's main home.
Disabled Persons Rail card - If you have a disability that makes travelling by train difficult you may qualify for the Disabled Persons Railcard. The Railcard allows you - and an adult companion with you - to get a 1/3 off most Standard and First Class fares throughout Great Britain. See http://www.disabledpersons-railcard.co.uk/

There are a number of agencies who will help you to get the benefits that you are entitled to.

Your local Council will also be willing to help you, particularly with specific questions that you may have.

includes information from Essex County Council Benefits Team

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