Taking the first step if you need financial support

If you need financial help, you should always start by checking if you can get any benefits.

Don’t be put off applying for benefits

Benefits are there to support you when you’re struggling, or just need that bit of extra income to manage.

Don’t feel embarrassed applying for benefits. Millions of people claim benefits, in all kinds of different situations.

Millions of other people are missing out on unclaimed benefits. This means it’s always worth doing a quick check, even if you’ve never considered claiming anything before.

It sometimes feels like there’s a stigma attached to benefits. This stigma is often based on misunderstandings about why people need benefits, and what they’re used for. If you need extra support, you have the right to apply for that support.

Where to start

You can use the benefits calculator on the Turn2us website. The calculator will give you a quick idea of what benefits and other financial support you might be able to claim.

Situations where benefits might help you

If you’re struggling financially, there’s a good chance you can get benefits to help you. 

Benefits are designed to help people in lots of different situations. They’re not just for people who are unemployed. 

You could get benefits even if:

• you’re working

• you have savings

• you own your own home

If you're struggling with money because of an illness or health condition

It’s always worth checking what you can get. Don't worry about whether your condition or situation is 'bad enough' to get benefits. 

There are a number of benefits designed for people with long-term health conditions. They're usually based on the effect your condition has on you, not your specific condition or diagnosis.

These benefits cover mental health as well as physical conditions. Remember that problems with mental health are a valid reason to get help - just like problems with physical health.

Other help you can get if you claim benefits 

If you can get a benefit, it’s always worth claiming it, even if the actual amount you can get is small. 

Claiming a benefit can let you get other financial support, for example:

• help with rent and Council Tax

• help with energy costs

• help with bills

• help with the cost of having a new baby or raising a child

• free prescriptions, eye tests and dental work

Checking what you can get

You can use a benefits calculator to work out what benefits you can apply for and how much money you can get. Calculators can’t give you a definite answer or amount, but it’s worth checking to get an idea.

To get the most accurate answer possible, you’ll need information about:

• your savings

• your income

• your pension

• childcare payments

• any existing benefits for you and your partner, if you have one

You can use the benefits calculator on the Turn2us website. The calculator will give you a quick idea of what benefits and other financial support you might be able to claim.

Dealing with the benefits system  

At Citizens Advice, we can help you if you have trouble applying 

We know dealing with the benefits system can be intimidating, especially if you haven't made a claim before. There are parts of the system that can take time and be hard to navigate. But it’s usually worth it - and you don’t have to do it alone.

Mental health support

Worrying about money can be extremely stressful and affect your health - especially your mental health. 

The mental health charity Mind have some great resources to help you look after yourself. You can find ways to get help with your mental health on the Mind website.

Organisations like the Samaritans are there if you need to speak to someone. You can find ways to get in touch with Samaritans on their website.

If you already get benefits or you can’t get them  

There might be other financial help available. Check what other help you can get with the cost of living.