Connexions Salford

There are a whole range of benefits and tax credits to help people on low incomes, and depending on your situation you might be able to make a claim. Talk to your Personal Adviser in the Connexions Centre to find out more.

Here’s some information on the main ones available to young people: If you're over 16 you might be eligible to claim if

• You’re looking for work
• On a low income
• Are registered disabled, or are caring for a child or older person.

Income Support - you might be able to claim Income Support – this will give you the latest information.

Jobseeker's Allowance - is mainly for unemployed people over 18 who are looking for work. If you are 16-17 you’ll only be able to claim Jobseeker’s Allowance in exceptional circumstances.

Other benefits…

Education Maintenance Allowance – if you are in or going into further education or work based learning you’ll be able to claim an Education Maintenance Allowance if your household income is below £30810 before tax. You can apply on line, and if you need help contact the Learner Support Helpline on 0800 121 8989, 7.00am – 8.00pm.

Child Tax Credit – if you have children, or care for a child you’ll probably qualify for Child Tax Credit, but it will depend on your household income before tax.

Care to Learn – if you’re a parent under 20, you can get financial help for childcare while you’re at school or college or in work based learning. You can claim Child Benefit for your child too, though this may affect other benefits you claim.

Carer’s Allowance – if you’re over 16 and look after another person who is disabled you might qualify for the Carer’s Allowance. The person you care for must be receiving one of the attendance allowance benefits or disability living allowance.

Tax Credits - Tax credits are payments from the government. If you're responsible for at least one child or young person who normally lives with you, you may qualify for Child Tax Credit. If you work, but earn low wages, you may qualify for Working Tax Credit

Local Housing Allowance If you rent from a private landlord and are unemployed or on a low wage you might be able to get help with your rent through the Local Housing Allowance. You’ll need to contact the local authority to see if you qualify.

If you are disabled or are responsible for a disabled person these benefits might apply to you …..

Employment Support Allowance - If you're over 16, you may be able to apply for ESA if you have been unable to work due to an illness or a disability.

Disability Living Allowance - You may be able to claim Disability Living Allowance for yourself or on behalf of a disabled child if you're responsible for their care. Your Personal Adviser will be able to talk to you about these and other benefits that, depending on your circumstances, might be available to you.

You can use the library in your Connexions Centre too as it has information for you to read or take away. You could also go to Weblinx for more useful websites.