Benefits Advice
Benefits can either be means tested benefits or non-means tested – this means looking at how much money you have, how much the Government says you need to live on and your personal circumstances (like age, where you live and if you are in education.
The difference between the two is that means-tested benefits depend on your income and saving. If you have a high income, you are more likely to get fewer benefits and vise versa. Non-means tested benefits do not depend on your income at all, but on the situation that you are in. Unfortunately, if you’re under 18 your rights to benefits are limited.
If you are going to university you or your family must contribute towards tuition fees, depending on your family income. Student loans are also available to help with your living costs. When you apply to your Local Education Authority for assessment of your tuition fees contribution, your entitlement to a student loan will also be assessed. You and your family are expected to make up the shortfall between the loan and your living costs.
If you’re on a training placement or are a student under 19 in relevant education and are having to live away from home for a good reason. You may be able to claim income support. Otherwise, 16-17 year olds can apply to Jobcentre Plus for a ‘Discretionary Hardship Award’ for a few weeks at a time. Housing benefits helps those who are unemployed or on a low incomes to pay rent. To find out if you can claim, contact the Housing Benefit department of your local council. At 18+ unemployed people can claim Jobseekers Allowance.
There are other benefits you may be entitled you may be entitled to if you are on low earnings, disabled, sick or have a family. If you have any queries regarding money speak to your Connexions Personal Advisor or contact Connexions Direct, on the Connexions website.
This can be all complicated so if you want to find out more information visit your local Connexions centre.
