Benefits, tax credits and universal credit

With the rollout of universal credit occurring at different times in different parts of the country, it can be difficult to work out what benefits you are entitled to.

On this page, you can use our benefit calculator to work out what you're entitled to claim. If your circumstances change, such as your child turning 16 or leaving work, you can see how these changes might affect your benefits, tax credits, and universal credit entitlement.

About benefits and tax credits

Knowing how much money you can expect to have coming in is a vital part of managing your family’s finances....

Benefit calculators

Use our free online calculators to work out what benefits you are entitled to as a single parent.

If you have 2 or more children

The rules for claiming child tax credits have changed. You’ll be affected if you have two or more children already...

If you have a disability or health issue

This factsheet lets you know what you can claim if you have a health condition or a disability.

If you’re not working

If you're unemployed, you will be entitled to certain benefits depending on your circumstances. Find out what you're entitled to.

If you’re planning to study

The financial support you receive when studying can change the benefits and tax credits you are entitled to. The money...

If you’re working

This factsheet gives an overview of the help available for single parents who work 16 hours a week or more.

If your child is under 5

This factsheet gives details of the benefits and tax credits you can receive if you have a child under five...

If your circumstances change

This information explains what happens to your tax credits when your circumstances change.

Universal Credit

Universal Credit is a new benefit system that is replacing many current benefits and tax credits with a single monthly...

When your child turns 16 or leaves education

It’s an exciting time for your child when they turn 16 or decide to leave school or college. However, for...