Are you missing out on benefits? Free tools to check if you’re due cash

BENEFITS are worth thousands of pounds a year – and millions of Brits could be missing out by not claiming everything they’re entitled to.

Whether you’re on a low income, living with a disability, caring for someone, or retired, there’s support available.

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But the system can be a nightmare to get your head around, even if you’re usually clued-up with cash.

From Universal Credit and Pension Credit to PIP, Child Benefit and Tax Credits, there are dozens of payments out there – and many rise every April.

This year, most benefits have gone up by 6.7%, meaning you could be entitled to more than ever.

Help is available if you’re not sure where to start – and the best place is a benefits calculator.

These free online tools tell you what you could get and how much, based on your income, savings and personal circumstances.

The three most trusted ones are Policy in Practice’s Better Off Calculator, entitledto and Turn2us.

They’re designed for people on income-related benefits like Universal Credit, Tax Credits, Carer’s Allowance or Council Tax Reduction – but they also give a rough guide if you’re on contribution-based benefits.

There’s also a dedicated Pension Credit calculator, which is especially useful now the benefit unlocks help with winter fuel bills.

Calculators can show how your benefits might change if your circumstances do – for example, if you move in with a partner, have a baby or get a new job.

Before you start, make sure you’ve got info about your:

• earnings and any other income
• savings or investments
• current benefits
• rent or mortgage payments
• council tax bill

You won’t be able to use a calculator if you’re in prison, a student, on strike, not a British or Irish citizen, living abroad, or living permanently in a care home.

If you’re unsure or prefer face-to-face advice, you can contact Citizens Advice, Age UK, or another independent service.

Use advicelocal to find free help near you.

How to apply for benefits

How you apply depends on which benefit you’re claiming – some are handled by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), others by HMRC or your local council.

Universal Credit

You can apply for Universal Credit online at gov.uk.

You’ll need to create an online account and start your claim within 28 days – otherwise you’ll have to begin again.

If you don’t have internet access, you can apply over the phone by calling 0800 328 5644.

Make sure you’ve got your bank details and a form of ID – like a passport or driving licence – ready before you apply.

Pension Credit

This benefit is a lifeline for older Brits on a low income and can also unlock extra help with energy bills.

You can apply up to four months before you reach State Pension age, which is currently 66.

The easiest way is online via gov.uk, but you can also apply over the phone on 0800 99 1234.

Be sure to have your National Insurance number, details of your income, savings and investments, and your bank account info to hand.

Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

PIP helps with the extra costs of living with a disability or long-term health condition.

You can apply online in some cases, but most people will need to start their claim by phone or post.

Call 0800 917 2222 or write to Freepost DWP PIP 1 to get the process going.

You may need to attend an assessment with a healthcare professional before a decision is made.