Check if you can get extra cash

Universal Credit is not just for people out of work. Any household who has a family income below £40k should carry out a 10-minute check.

If you have been refused a disability benefit you may be able to challenge it – last year more than 5,000 people successfully challenged DWP over their PIP award decision. For more advice about challenging a PIP decision and understanding the tribunal process, visit Citizens Advice 

You could save around £200 per year by switching to social tariffs for broadband. Social tariffs are low-cost broadband deals offered to customers on benefits and cost between £10 and £20 a month. Check here to see how much you can save.

You could be missing out on an average £160 a year via a social tariff, which is available to all water companies and can give certain customers on lower incomes a discount of up to 50%. Go to your water provider’s website and search ‘social tariffs’.

If you are claiming benefits or on a low income you could get support with your council tax payments. You have to apply to get the support through your local council. In Walsall, ring 0300 555 2855 to request an application form.

Pension Credit could top up your income to a minimum of £201.05 per week for single pensioners and to £306.85 for couples or more if a person has a disability or caring responsibilities. Even a small Pension Credit award can provide access to a wide range of other benefits – such as help with housing costs, council tax or heating bills.
 Apply for Pension Credit online
You can also call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234