Many households in Merseyside are not claiming all the benefits and entitlements they are due. Merseyside has a high proportion of households receiving benefits. Access to local food banks, emergency funds, council hardship schemes and national benefits is important. This guide covers the main benefits, how to check eligibility and how to claim.
This guide is for general information only. It is not financial advice. Free debt help is available from charities and public bodies. Always check fees, terms, and eligibility before using a paid service.
entitledto (entitledto.co.uk) and Policy in Practice's Better Off calculator are free online tools that show which benefits you may be eligible for based on your circumstances. They are confidential and do not require you to provide personal identifying information to get a result.
Universal Credit replaces several older benefits (income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, Housing Benefit, Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, Income Support and income-related Employment and Support Allowance) for most working-age people. If you are already on one of these benefits, you may be invited to move to Universal Credit. Do not move without getting advice first — speak to Citizens Advice.
Council Tax Reduction (sometimes called Council Tax Support) can significantly reduce your council tax bill if you are on a low income or certain benefits. Apply to your local council in Merseyside. Each council runs its own scheme so eligibility varies.
Child Benefit is paid for every child under 16 (or under 20 in approved education). If your or your partner's income is above £60,000, a High Income Child Benefit Charge may apply — but you should still claim and pay the charge, as it protects National Insurance credits. Free school meals are available for qualifying households.
If you care for someone for at least 35 hours per week and they receive a qualifying disability benefit, you may be entitled to Carer's Allowance. Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Attendance Allowance are for people with a health condition or disability. Citizens Advice can help with applications.
Merseyside has a high proportion of households receiving benefits. Access to local food banks, emergency funds, council hardship schemes and national benefits is important. Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and the five Merseyside councils run support schemes. Check your local council for current household support, food vouchers and emergency grants.
Paid service: these may charge a fee. Compare free options first and check the terms before you continue.
Benefits and Entitlements Check Service
Some paid services help people identify and claim benefits. Free alternatives — Citizens Advice, entitledto, Turn2us — provide comprehensive help at no cost. Check before paying.
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Start with free support. The services listed above are free, experienced and cover all the main options available to you. You do not need to pay to get good financial help.
If you want personalised guidance, Ask Fin can help you work through your situation and point you in the right direction — this is general guidance, not regulated financial advice.
How do I know if I am entitled to benefits?
Use a free benefits calculator such as entitledto or Turn2us. They are quick, confidential and comprehensive. Citizens Advice can also check your entitlement for free.
What benefits are available in Merseyside?
National benefits including Universal Credit, Child Benefit, PIP and Carer's Allowance are available across the UK including Merseyside. Merseyside has a high proportion of households receiving benefits. Access to local food banks, emergency funds, council hardship schemes and national benefits is important. Your local council also runs Council Tax Reduction and may have other local schemes.
Will claiming benefits affect my credit score?
Receiving benefits does not directly affect your credit score. However, some lenders may take your income source into account when making lending decisions. Getting free debt or benefits advice will not affect your credit file.
What if my benefits claim is refused?
You have the right to challenge a decision. First, request a Mandatory Reconsideration. If that fails, you can appeal to an independent tribunal. Citizens Advice and law centres can help you with this process for free.
This guide is for general information only. It is not financial advice. Free debt help is available from charities and public bodies. Always check fees, terms, and eligibility before using a paid service.