I need help, through worrying! Basically, I have had RRMS, for about 7yrs. In that time, I’ve had to leave work due to health reasons. Got 2 children, 12yrs and a 5yr old. Currently receiving the child benefit/tax credit, DLA- middle rate care, higher rate mobility. And my Fiancé has been made unemployed due to the company folding. Now we’re panicking about money, we have no savings either. He gets a carers allowance, as I now need more help. Would anybody be so kind to help me, and let me know what we could be entitled to please? Hopeful thanks in advance, Jane x
As far as I’m aware Jane, your partner should be able to claim JSA (Jobseekers Allowance) and you may be able to claim ESA (although I’m not completely sure about NI contributions, it’s worth finding out). If you have no income you should be able claim either mortgage interest or housing benefit, as well as a reduction in your Concil Tax.
This may help. Best of luck hun. Mags xx
Hi Jane,
I have MS and do a day at my local Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB). It’s well worth a visit to the CAB as they will do a benefits check and make sure you are getting all the benefits you are entitled to. Its all confidential and I think it’s an invaluable service. You could be elible for Coucil Tax Support and if its a rented property Housing Benefit. You could well qualify for Employment Support Allowance or Job Seekers Allowance if returning to work were an option. Child Tax Credit if you’re not already gettting it. Direct Payments can also help to pay fot additional care.
Make sure you’re getting all your entitled to. I gave up work a couple of years ago and money is tight, but we manage with the benefits we get. The MS Society have also been a huge help in funding expensive pieces of equipment I needed such as a scooter and lift for the car.
All the best
Diane
Hi Jane, Diane has given you marvelous advice.
I just wanted to add that I use Direct Payment for extra care. it gives my hubby a break as I am dependent on him so much.
It seems a daunting system to fathom initially, but it works so well for me.
If you need any more info about how it works, please just ask.
luv POllx
Hi Jane,
You need to apply for Employment Support Allowance. When your fiancée was in work he probably supported you but now you need to apply for an income Replacement Benefit – you cannot survive just on carer’s allowance (DLA is not classed as income and so we can ignore it)
As you have probably read or heard ESA is a complicated benefit and not the easiest to apply for. I would advise joining Benefits and Work website. It costs £20.00 but they have excellent guides. If you can’t afford the £20.00 – Google “ESA Guides” and you will find lots of free help.
The next port of call is your local council for help with your rent and council tax.
You might be able to apply on line – it depends on your local council.
Once you get these two things in place your situation will be so much better (ESA is around £100.00 per week so this will make life much easier)
Jane
Hi Jane
Just wanted to check that you claim the extra allowance on Tax Credit as you have a disability. Every little helps! It actually does make quite a difference to the monthly payments.
Also, check with your energy provider to see if you qualify for the Warm Home Discount. You might have left it too late for this winter but it’s worth remembering for next winter. This year it provides a rebate of £135 on your energy bill. There are some criteria set by government and then each energy provider sets their own criteria. You should be able to find information on their website or just ring them and ask.
Tracey x