Benefits for families
To find out what benefits you and your family should get, use an independent benefits calculator
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Child benefit
Child benefit is a tax-free payment that you can claim for your child.
Universal credit
Universal Credit is a payment to help with your living costs. It’s paid monthly. For most people it has replaced Child Tax Credit, Working Tax Credit and the Childcare Element of the Working Tax Credit.
Childcare Vouchers
Some employers run a childcare voucher scheme to help you pay for childcare. Childcare vouchers can be offered to you in addition to your cash salary, but many employers offer them as a 'salary sacrifice'. This means that you sacrifice a specific amount of your salary and in exchange receive that amount in childcare. Both you and your employer can gain because you do not pay tax or national insurance on the vouchers.
Free childcare for 2, 3 and 4 year olds
Some 2 year olds, and all 3 and 4 year olds are entitled to a Free Early Education (FEE) place, to find out more visit FEE.
Free school meals
Visit the free school meals page for further information.
Housing benefit and council tax support
Housing benefit and council tax benefit are means-tested benefits, which help people on low incomes to pay their rent and council tax. Many people think only the unemployed can claim. You can claim if you are:
- working
- receiving other benefits
- self-employed or a pensioner
- renting privately or from the council
- living in a hostel or similar accommodation.
Apply for Housing Benefit
Normally, claims for housing benefit should be made by the person responsible for paying the rent to the landlord.
Apply for Council Tax support
For council tax support, the person who is liable to pay the council tax for the property should make the claim.
Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)
If you're out of work or working less than 16 hours a week on average, you may be able to get Jobseeker's Allowance. This is applicable when you have reached a working age.
To find out more contact your local Jobcentre Plus.
Financial support if you care for a disabled child
If you care for a disabled child you may be able to get financial help, the Financial Support For Children With A Disability document provides some guidance on the financial support available to both parents and carers. The document also contains contact details should you require help or advice:
Other benefits
There may be other benefits available to you. For more information visit GOV.UK.
