Bringing up children?

This is a general guide to benefits you may be able to get from Jobcentre Plus and other offices if you are of working age. For more information contact Jobcentre Plus.

Income Support

If you are aged 16 up to age 60, are on a low income and any of the following apply: you are a lone parent, you are sick or disabled, you are caring for someone who is ill or disabled, you are registered blind, find out more about Income Support.

Jobseeker's Allowance

If you or your partner are not working or working on average less than 16 hours a week find out more about Jobseeker's Allowance.

Tax Credits

For your household to be eligible for tax credits, you and/or your partner must be aged 16 or over and usually live in the UK. You may still qualify if you do not live in the UK. Find out more about Tax Credits - this will take you to the HM Revenue & Customs website.

Child Benefit

If you are responsible for a child or children aged under 19 find out more about Child Benefit.

Guardian's Allowance

If you are getting Child Benefit for a child who has lost at least one parent find out more about Guardian's Allowance.

Child Maintenance Bonus

If you get child maintenance and your income-based Jobseeker's Allowance or Income Support stops because of work, find out more about Child Maintenance Bonus.

Widowed Parent's Allowance

If you are bringing up at least one child or expecting your late husband's baby and your late husband or wife has paid National Insurance contributions, find out more about Widowed Parent's Allowance.

Home Responsibilities Protection

If you are unable to pay National Insurance (NI) contributions because you are bringing up a child aged under 16, find out more about Home Responsibilities Protection.