What kind of benefits can I claim?
Universal Credit is the standard benefit that most people in the UK can claim. It combines several previous benefits into one monthly payment (sometimes divided into two payments for people living in Scotland) and covers all of the circumstances listed above.
If your local authority has adopted Universal Credit as its standard benefits process, you’ll be directed to apply for Universal Credit when you make an application for any of the above benefits.
There are some areas in the UK that have yet to adopt Universal Credit as the standard benefit. In these rare cases, you may still be able to apply for:
Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)
Simply fill in an online form on the gov.uk website. You'll need to provide information about your living situation. You'll also need to provide your national insurance (NI) number and a contact telephone number you can be reached on.
Residents of Northern Ireland will need to apply for JSA online via NI Direct.
Income Support
Visit the gov.uk website (or NI Direct website for Northern Ireland residents) to find out how to call and apply for Income Support.
Visit the gov.uk website to find out how to apply for ESA / PIP over the telephone. You can also fill in and print out the ESA1 form and send or take it to your local Jobcentre Plus office.
Working and Child Tax credit
You can order a Tax Credits claim form by using the gov.uk online tool or calling the Tax Credits Office. It can take up to two weeks for your form to arrive.