-
Welfare Benefits: Information and advice
Our Welfare Benefit Advisors are here to support you to maximise your income.
We can provide advice and support to check your eligibility, help you to apply, and help you to challenge a decision if your application is refused, or your existing benefits are reduced or stopped.
Please get in touch if you need to discuss what benefits are available to you or if you need assistance when making a claim.
What types of benefits are available?
Working age support
Disability benefits
Retirement
-
Universal Credit
Universal Credit has replaced many of the former welfare benefits for people of working age who are on a low income or out of work. It is a single benefit which is paid monthly.
Even if the money is to be used for your rent, it will not be paid directly to Eastlight and you will still have to arrange for that to be done.
If you are an Eastlight resident and making a new claim for Universal Credit, then please get in touch with us and we will provide some assistance.
Before you make an application you should:
- Verify who you are by following the guidance at www.gov.uk/verify
- Have an email address
- Have set up a bank or building society account where Universal Credit payments can be made
You will also need information about:
- Your housing, for example how much rent you pay
- Details of your income, for example payslips
- Details of savings and any investments, like shares or a property that you rent out
- Details of how much you pay for childcare if you’re applying for help with childcare costs
Claims are made online at www.gov.uk/universal-credit
Please note: It can take up to five weeks before any money is received, so you may temporarily go into arrears with your rent payments.
Payment is made up of a standard allowance and any extra amounts that apply to you, for example if you:
- Have children
- Have a disability or health condition which prevents you from working
- Need help paying your rent
You can calculate how much you might receive by visiting useful websites, such as:
If you require advice regarding a new or existing benefit claim, including Universal Credit, please contact us by clicking here.
