Get help with benefits and money advice

Many people miss out on financial support they’re entitled to. This page helps you explore benefit options and find reliable advice services, so you can make informed decisions about your money. Whether you're retired, working, disabled, or caring for someone, there may be help available.

What benefits can I claim?

Depending on your age, health, income and caring responsibilities, you may be able to claim:

Use our Benefits calculator

For older people

• Attendance Allowance – for people over State Pension age who need help with personal care
• Pension Credit – extra money for people over State Pension age on a low income

For carers

• Carer’s Allowance – if you care for someone for 35+ hours a week

For people with disabilities

• Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – for people aged 16 to State Pension age with a long-term health condition or disability
• New Style Employment and Support Allowance – if you can’t work due to illness and don’t qualify for Universal Credit

For people on low income

• Universal Credit – monthly payment to help with living costs
• Housing Benefit – to help pay rent if you’re on a low income
• Local Council Tax Support – help with Council Tax (apply through your district council)

Use Gov.uk - Benefit calculators  to check what you’re entitled to.

Important to know

Staffordshire County Council does not process benefit claims. You’ll need to apply through:

• GOV.UK (links above) for most national benefits
• Your district or borough council for Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support

Where to get financial advice

If you’re struggling with budgeting, debt or managing your money, these organisations offer free and trusted support:

• Money helper – free and impartial advice on everyday finances
• Citizens Advice – help with benefits, debt and employment
• National Debtline – free debt advice
• Turn2us – support for people in financial hardship
• Staffordshire Connects – local financial support services
• Energy Saving Trust – tips to reduce energy bills
• Beat the Cold – advice on low-cost energy solutions

Help with work and disability

If you’re looking for work or need support due to a disability or health condition, these services can help:

• Jobcentre Plus – employment support and benefit advice
• Disability Employment Advisors - how to get a job when you have a disability
• Looking for work if you're disabled: Looking for a job - GOV.UK - specialist help if you have a disability or health condition

Contact for advice

You can speak to someone directly for help with benefits or debt:

• Citizens Advice helpline: 0800 144 8848
• National Debtline: 0800 111 6768

Cost of living support

If you’re affected by rising living costs, there may be extra help available please see additional information on our cost of living support pages.