Understanding State
Benefits.
Unfortunately many of our members are facing the
prospect of being made redundant.
One of the many questions we are asked is : "What state benefits am I entitled
to?".
We hope the following information will provide a useful guideline to some of the
benefits you may be entitled to.
The benefits system provides practical help and financial support if you are
unemployed and looking for work. It also provides you with additional
income when
your earnings are low, if you are bringing up children, are retired,
care for someone,
are ill, or have a disability.
Who pays benefits ?
The Department of Works and Pensions (DWP) manages most benefits through
Jobcentre Plus offices. Benefits and entitlements for pensioners are dealt
with
through a network of pension centres which provide a face-to-face service
for those
who need additional help and support. You will also often deal
with other agencies
or government departments such as your local council or HM
Revenue & Customs (HMRC).
People of working age.
Benefits and services for people of working age, for example Jobseekers
Allowance,
are managed by Jobcentre Plus offices around the country.
Jobcentre Plus will help you with :
- finding work
- starting your own business
- managing on low income
- illness or accidents at work
Pensioners and people planning for retirement.
The Pension Service, which is part of the DWP, provides services to :
- anyone planning for their retirement
- people approaching retirement
- employers
- pensions providers and advisors
The Pension Service looks after the benefits and entitlements such as the State
Pension, Pension Credit, and Winter Fuel Payments.
Families and Children.
Jobcentre Plus looks after benefits and services for families, including those :
- bringing up children, including children with special needs
- managing on a low income, including help with health costs
The Child Support Agency (CSA) is part of the DWP and is responsible for running
the child support system. It assesses. collects and pays child maintainance.
HM Revenue & Customs deals with Child Benefit, Guardian's Allowance, and Tax
Credits.
Disabled people and carers.
The Disability and Carers Service, which is a part of DWP, is responsible for
benefits
and services for people who are sick, or have a disability - for
example, Disability
Living Allowance and Attendance Allowance.
Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit.
Your local council looks after Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit.