What benefits can I claim when working part time? Benefits

If you work part-time, or under a zero-hours contract, it is possible that your income might not cover all of your bills or outgoings. If this is the case, you may wonder which benefits are available to you, if any.

The good news is that there are benefits designed to support individuals on a low income. Eligibility for these depends on how many hours you work, and how much you earn.

Benefits & Part-Time Working

To help you understand which benefits you may be entitled to when working part-time, we’ve put together a list that includes more details and other eligibility criteria. Read on to check them out. Or, to get further advice specific to your situation, contact us today. Our Advocates would be happy to help.

Universal Credit

Universal credit is the new benefit system that is designed to help individuals with living costs if they need it. It is now replacing the following benefits:

  • Child Tax Credit
  • Housing Benefit
  • Income Support
  • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
  • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance

You may be eligible for Universal Credit (UC) if you’re on a low income. How much you get will depend on your earnings, not how many hours you work.

To make a claim for Universal Credit you should make an account and make a claim online. You will then be invited to attend an interview at your local Jobcentre Plus and, after this, you’ll get your first payment 5 weeks after you claim.

Child Benefit

You are eligible for Child Benefit if you are responsible for a child that is under 16 (or under 20 in approved education or training) and you earn under £50,000. Child Benefit is paid every 4 weeks and the rate of pay is as follows:

  • Eldest or only child – £20.70 per week
  • Additional children – £13.70 per week

Council Tax Reduction

For individuals on a low income that may struggle to pay council tax, help is available in the form of a Council Tax Reduction. You can apply for a Council Tax Reduction for the property you live in, however, you must be responsible for paying the council tax.

Contact BBO To Find Out More

If you are working part-time and struggling to meet your financial commitments, contact us today.

At Building Better Opportunities, we support individuals in Stafford & South Staffordshire to understand their finances and the benefits they are entitled to. We can also help you to make a claim for benefits, and provide budgeting help and financial advice.

To find out more, come and see us at your nearest Drop-In Session. Alternatively, give us a call or fill in the contact form below to request a callback.