A change in your household or your work situation are just two reasons why you may be missing out on benefits support you’re entitled to. Universal Credit and other payments, such as Council Tax support, are designed to help you when you need them most.
Don’t be put off if you’re unsure how to apply or are confused about the changes to Universal Credit. Check what you could be entitled to and make sure you know how to apply.
For more information, you can use a free online benefits calculator on the Turn 2 Us website or on the Entitled To website. If you are over pension age, visit the Independent Age website.
Visit benefits and support for information on Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, Council Tax support and more.
To check whether you can apply for Universal Credit, contact Citizens Advice. If you need help applying, call Citizens Advice on 0800 144 8 444 or use their online webchat.
If you use British Sign Language, you can get advice using a BSL interpreter (Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm).
If you need help applying for a benefit or filling in a form, such as Personal Independence Payments, or Attendance Allowance, contact Advice Portsmouth. You can call 023 9279 4340, text 07789 550593 or email portsmouth@theyoutrust.org.uk.
Council tenant
If you are a council tenant, you can get advice on claiming benefits from your housing officer.
More benefits and support
Here is some extra help you might not know you can apply for:
- Healthy Start Vouchers – if you receive certain benefits and are pregnant or have a child under the age of four
- Free School Meals – if you meet the income criteria and have a school-aged child
- Council Tax Support – if you are on a low income and pay council tax
- Council Tax reductions and exemptions – these are based on who is living in the property, not on your income
- Discretionary housing payments – if you receive Housing Benefit or Universal Credit with a housing costs element, but can’t afford your rent or the deposit for a new tenancy
- Warm homes discount – help with your electricity bill during the winter. This webpage from Ofgem, has the most up to date information.
- Bereavement Support Payment – if you are on a low income and your husband, wife or civil partner has died in the last 21 months.
- Funeral Expenses Payment – if you are on a low income and are responsible for arranging someone’s funeral
- Child Trust Fund – the government put between £500 and £1,000 into an account for each child born between 1 September 2002 and 2 January 2011. You are entitled to access your fund when you turn 18
- The Portsmouth Leisure Card – gives discounts on sports and activities in the city – if you are eligible for means-tested benefits.