It can be difficult to understand what benefits you’re entitled to, how to claim them, and what to do if your benefits are stopped. We’re here to offer support and guidance to everyone who needs more information about benefits.
Whatever benefit your looking for advice on we’re here to give you a clear answer.
Benefits
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Benefits
Understanding benefits
There are a wide range of people who may be entitled to benefits. Here are some of the groups of people who could be eligible for extra support:
• People in employment or unemployed people
• Those experiencing illness or disabled people
• Carers
• Young people
• Older people
• Parents
• Armed forces and veterans
• People on a low income
There are several different types of benefits and other forms of support you could receive. You might also be entitled to Universal Credit or help with your council tax, housing costs and national insurance, or other kinds of financial support. We can also give you information about how to claim benefits, how you’ll receive your benefit payments, and what to do if you have any problems getting them.
If you are claiming Universal Credit for the first time you can contact our Help to Claim service on 0800 0232581.
Whatever you need to know about benefits, we’re here to offer you free, impartial and confidential advice. Get in touch with Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau today.
What to bring to your appointment
If you are contacting us regarding a benefit check, the following documents may be useful to have on hand:
- National Insurance number
- All letters from Government departments (e.g. Department of Work and Pensions (DWP), JobCentre Plus, Pension Service, Renfrewshire Council, Social Security Scotland)
- Decision letters that you are unhappy with or wish to challenge
- Details and proof of income
- Wage slips and current benefit details
- Tenancy agreement/mortgage details
Prepare for your appointment - Benefit check
If you would like an adviser to check that you are receiving all the benefits you're entitled to, bring the following information for everyone who lives in your home:
- Dates of birth (for yourself and family)
- Employment details (status, hours worked)
- Details and proof of income for the last tax year, often found on P60 form
- Details and proof of income for this year so far (from payslips)
- Current benefits/tax credit details and proof
- Childcare cost details (details of child care provider, childcare costs)
- Investment income details (bank statements for all accounts showing current investment or interest payments)
- Rental agreement or current mortgage repayment
- Current council tax bill
Benefit challenge
If you would like an adviser to help you challenge a benefit decision then please bring with you any relevant letters that you have received. If your query is regarding Universal Credit please remember to bring your login details.