Making the decision to apply for government benefits can be difficult for many reasons. You may worry about the process and wonder how to begin. Different types are handled by different departments of the government. You need help to find your way through the different government agencies in order to find the benefits you can claim. It is important to find the type of benefit that applies to your situation and to claim it from the correct government agency. Getting started with the right forms and the correct agency is half the battle.
A myriad of benefits are available. There are benefits for people who are retired, people who are of working age, families and children who qualify, and people who suffer from disability . State Pension is available to anyone, but additional benefits are available to people of the correct age. The Pension Service normally automatically sends your claim form to you four months before you reach the appropriate, eligible State Pension age. There are options for people who are dealing with unemployment. If you are looking for work or are working for a low wage, you can get financial aid and support from Jobcentre Plus offices and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC).
Child benefit is not dependant on salary or savings and everyone with a child can claim Child Benefit. This help is provided by different sections of the Department for Work and Pensions, and HMRC. You may qualify even if the child does not live with you if you pay for the financial support of the child. Additional support is available for families who have needs above and beyond those of the average family. For example, children with special needs, single parent families, and other conditions that put a family under strain may qualify for services.
Your local Jobcentre Plus office can direct you to the appropriate department to explain your options and answer your questions. If you are sick, disabled, or caring for someone else, there are local and central government services available. You will qualify for aid depending on the extent and details of your illness or disability. Another factor which has a bearing on your ability to collect benefits is the determination of whether your disability is temporary or if it is long term or permanent. The Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is one of the benefits that may be received. It is available to both adults and children who are disabled, whether it is a physical or mental disability.
If you are struggling with the confusion that can surround the decision to claim benefit, you can get information and fill out forms online or go into the office to fill out paper forms. To help you claim benefit, your local Jobcentre Plus office will direct you to the right form, or you might find and download a form from a website. Honestly answer all questions on the form with detailed and accurate descriptions. Do not be afraid to ask questions and seek out the help you need in filling out the forms.
To claim benefit can seem overwhelming. You need the clear information provided by this site to steer you to the correct starting point.
