# data[].attributes.headline
Behind on any payments/risk of not paying

# data[].attributes.subject
Behind on any payments/risk of not paying

# data[].attributes.body
If you are concerned that you can’t pay your rent / mortgage / council tax let your landlord / lender / local authority know as soon as possible and ask for help.
For information on which bills are a priority look at the bill prioritiser tool below

# data[].attributes.body
Take a few minutes to check if you may be entitled to any benefits.
Remember nearly 30% of Universal Credit claimants in Wales are also employed

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Use the Turn2us Benefits Calculator to find out which welfare benefits you may be entitled to.

# data[].attributes.body
It may be beneficial to access advice. Below are some examples of services that offer advice on a variety of topics.

In addition to the below will be local services in your area.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
From time to time we all need some help and support.

With the rising costs of living, many people in Wales need that help now.

The Welsh Government is doing everything it can to put money back into people's pockets.

There is support available to you that could help you with some of your living costs.

Call the Advicelink Cymru 'Claim what's yours' helpline

If you are unsure about what support is available to you, Advicelink Cymru can help you check what you are entitled to and to claim what's yours.

When you call Advicelink Cymru, on 0808 250 5700, you will get free and confidential advice about money you may be entitled to.

Advicelink Cymru can help you:

apply for welfare benefits, such as Personal Independence Payment, Carers Allowance and Pension Credit

get Welsh Government support with fuel costs, school and childcare expenses and further and higher education costs

The Advicelink Cymru helpline can also arrange for you to get help with debt and personal finance issues.

How do I contact Advicelink Cymru?

Get in touch with an Advicelink Cymru advisor today by calling the free helpline on 0808 250 5700.

Lines are open from Monday to Friday between 9am to 5pm. Croesawir galwadau yn Gymraeg / Calls are welcomed in Welsh.

What happens when I call the helpline?

When you contact Advicelink Cymru, a trained advisor will talk to you about your circumstances and help you find out what support is available.

The advisor will support you throughout the claim process and help you to fill in any claim forms.

The advisor can also let you know what evidence you will need to support your claim.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Information about what benefits you could be entitled to.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
StepChange Debt Charity. Free Expert Debt Help & Advice

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Get free, impartial, and confidential debt advice with StepChange. Available 24/7, our online service helps you understand your debts, set a budget, and find the best solution for your needs. Get expert support and guidance at your own pace. Start today and ease the pressure.

# data[].attributes.body
Information and advice on a range of topics including:
- benefits
- housing
- debt
- employment
- and much more

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Volunteer with us

Over 20,000 highly trained volunteers support the delivery of our service. Our volunteers come from a range of backgrounds and find volunteering rewarding, challenging and fun. We have a range of roles in local Citizens Advice and Witness Service, want to find out more?

Our volunteer opportunities

Find your local Citizens Advice

For more information and advice

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Over 20,000 highly trained volunteers support the delivery of our service. Our volunteers come from a range of backgrounds and find volunteering rewarding, challenging and fun. We have a range of roles in local Citizens Advice and Witness Service, want to find out more?

# data[].attributes.body
A website providing lots of useful information and resources on a range of topics

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
MoneyHelper joins up money and pensions guidance to make it quicker and easier to find the right help. MoneyHelper brings together the support and services of three government-backed financial guidance providers: the Money Advice Service, the Pensions Advisory Service and Pension Wise.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Free and impartial help with money, backed by the government | MoneyHelper

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
MoneyHelper: free and impartial help with money and pensions. Formerly Money Advice Service, The Pension Advisory Service and Pension Wise.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Budget Planner | Free online budget planning tool | MoneyHelper

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Discover our free online MoneyHelper Budget Planner calculator to gain a better understanding of your money coming in and out, and how to improve your finances.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The NHS suggests some essentials you'll need for your baby - think things like bedding, clothing and nappies.

Then we've put together some other things you might want to think about getting, everything from things for your new baby's bedroom to travel items.

Tell us your budget and we'll let you know how your actual costs will stack up.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A baby can cost up to £7,200 in their first year, excluding childcare. Discover our baby costs calculator to help you budget for how much you will need.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
What is kinship care?

Kinship care is when a child lives all or most of the time with a relative or friend who isn't their parent, usually because their parents aren't able to care for them. That relative or friend is called a kinship carer.

Many kinship carers are grandparents, but they are also siblings, aunts, uncles, family friends and others with a close connection to the child.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Kinship advice and information service | expert and friendly

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Our Kinship advice and information service supports kinship carers to access expert, non-judgemental, free support - online and on the phone.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Registered charity number 246329 (England & Wales) and SC039307(Scotland). Company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales number 864097

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Delivering support through our multi-channel advice line and vast library of written resources, Age Cymru Advice is the key provider of information and advice for people in later life.

We offer support with a range of issues, including; Welfare Benefits, Social Care, Pensions, Dementia, Bereavement, Staying Safe, Disability, Care Homes, Rights, Local Services, Help at Home, Wills, Housing, Scams, Work and Learning, Retirement, Health, Consumer, Physical Activity, Money, Legal, Saving Energy, Home and Community, Travel and Lifestyle.

If you want to talk to someone directly, in Welsh or English, call us on 0300 303 44 98 charged at local rate (open between 9:00am and 4:00pm, Monday - Friday). Email us at advice@agecymru.org.uk

Demand for our advice line is incredibly high at the moment at this worrying time for many. We have increased capacity on our line but it make take longer than usual to get through. Please bear with us, we will get to you as quickly as we can.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Delivering support through our multi-channel advice line and vast library of written resources, Age Cymru Advice is the key provider of information and advice for people in later life.

# data[].attributes.body
A useful tool to work out which bills you need to action first, tips on steps to take and the consequences of not paying

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
It can be difficult to manage all the different bills and payments in our lives.

The consequences of missing some types of bills can be more serious than if you fall behind on others.

Our Bill prioritiser can help you put your bills and payments in the right order. If you're struggling to pay - whether it's your rent, your mobile phone bill or loan repayments - it will tell you in two easy steps what to do before you miss a payment.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Bill prioritiser: which debts or bills are most important? | MoneyHelper

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If you can't pay your council tax, mortgage or utility bills, it's important to get help to avoid serious consequences. Find out which options are available to you.

# data[].attributes.body
You may be entitled to claim for up to 30 hours childcare per week if:
- you have a child aged 3 or 4
- be employed and earn at least, on average, the equivalent to working 16 hours a week at the National Minimum Wage or Living Wage
- Or be enrolled on either an undergraduate, postgraduate or further education course that is at least 10 weeks in length

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Do you need help with childcare costs? Under the Childcare Offer for Wales, you could claim up to 30 hours of early education and childcare a week, for up to 48 weeks of the year. This government-funded childcare scheme aims to lessen the burden of childcare costs so that you can spend the money you've saved on the things that matter most to your family.

The Offer has already helped parents from all over Wales to return to work, increase their hours or work more flexibly. If you're looking for a job, or thinking about going back into education or training, but are worried about childcare costs, this support could make all the difference.

Whatever the Offer means for you and your family, don't miss out on your share of this childcare funding.
You can apply now to receive funded childcare from January 2024.
All parents wishing to receive Childcare Offer for Wales funded childcare will need to apply through the national digital service. The online service is bilingual and can be accessed via a laptop, mobile phone or tablet.

When applying, you will need:

Your child's birth certificate

Proof of address

Proof of household income or enrolment on a higher or further education course

If you need more help about the Childcare Offer for Wales, please contact us.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Childcare Offer for Wales | Help With Childcare Costs Wales | GOV.WALES

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Childcare Offer for Wales: help with childcare costs for eligible parents of 3 to 4 year olds

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
If you've missed a council tax payment, you're in 'arrears' - this means you owe money to your council.

You should contact your council straight away. Don't wait for them to contact you.

Ask to speak to someone in the council tax office and tell them about your situation. They should be able to tell you how to get help - for example, they might help you find a free debt adviser. You can c heck how to contact your council on GOV.UK.

You might be able to pay less council tax or not pay it at all depending on your situation - check if you can pay less council tax.

Council Tax arrears is a 'priority debt'. This means you need to pay it before debts like credit cards.

If you have more than one debt, you should read our advice about getting help with debt. Or you can talk to an adviser.

If you can't pay your council tax

Contact your council and explain your situation. Don't just stop paying.

Ask them if they'll let you pay your council tax in smaller amounts.

You'll probably be asked to commit to paying a regular amount each month. If you're not sure how much you can afford, you can use our budgeting tool or talk to a specialist adviser at Citizens Advice.

If these payments mean you won't be able to afford essential costs such as your rent or mortgage, tell the council.

If you're on a low income, you might be able to get a reduction on your council tax bill. You can read more about getting help with your Council Tax.

If you miss a council tax payment

You'll get a reminder from the council about 2 weeks after you miss a payment.
If you pay within 7 days, you don't need to do anything else. The debt will be cleared and you'll be able to continue paying your council tax in instalments.

Check the letter you get from the council to make sure you pay your Council Tax arrears into the right bank account. It might be different to the one you normally pay your Council Tax instalments into.

If you don't pay within 7 days of the reminder

If you don't pay within 7 days of the reminder (or if it's the third time you've been late with council tax payments this year), the council will send you a 'final notice'.

The final notice will tell you to pay all of your council tax for the rest of the year within 7 days.

If you don't pay within 7 days of the final notice

Your council will usually apply to the courts for permission to collect the debt from you - this is known as a 'liability order'.

Your council should look at all other options before applying for a liability order. For example, they should talk to you about an affordable repayment plan or give you time to apply for Council Tax Reduction if you're eligible.

Don't ignore these notices. You might be able to get extra time by applying for the Breathing Space scheme.

If you're eligible, you could get 60 days of breathing space where your creditors can't:

contact you

take action to make you pay

add interest and charges to your debt

If your council is already taking deductions from Universal Credit, these will continue even if you have breathing space. To see if breathing space is right for you, talk to an adviser.

If you're not sure if you have to pay the council tax debt, you can check if you have to pay the debt.

If you don't pay off your council tax debt

The council will apply for a liability order to recover the debt. This means they might be able to take action to get the money you owe. This is called 'enforcement action'.

Usually the council will want you to pay the debt within the current tax year.

The council might:

If you're a vulnerable person, talk to your council to see what other options there are. You can be vulnerable in lots of different situations, for example if you're disabled, seriously ill, have mental health problems or are a single parent.

If you go to court, you'll have to pay the cost of the court fees. If the council uses bailiffs, their fees will also be added to the debt. This can add hundreds of pounds to your bill.

If you still don't pay your council tax debt

You could go to prison for up to 3 months. This is only if the court decides that you're deliberately not paying your council tax and bailiffs haven't been able to recover the debt.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
What happens when you miss a council tax payment, and how to negotiate with your council to pay what you owe in smaller amounts

# data[].attributes.headline
Could you be entitled to a council tax reduction?

# data[].attributes.subject
Could you be entitled to a council tax reduction?

# data[].attributes.body
You may be entitled to a council tax reduction if:

you live in a low-income household

you receive Universal Credit

you live alone

you are a student

you are severely mentally impaired

you are a carer

you are disabled

your property is empty

you are a care leaver

you receive pension credit

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Council Tax is charged on all homes and it is usually paid if you are over 18 and own or rent your home.

You may be entitled to pay less Council Tax if:

For more information, read our leaflet.

If you think that you may be eligible you should contact your local authority's Council Tax department.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find out if you are eligible to pay less Council Tax

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Who is eligible?

We're dedicated to supporting not only serving and ex-serving personnel but the whole of the Armed Forces community, including dependants and carers. This includes:

Currently serving and ex-service personnel who have received one day of pay.

Reserve or Auxiliary personnel, or those who have previously served

Those who have served with the Mercantile Marine afloat in hostile waters

Current or previous full-time members of Allied Civil Police Forces

Those entitled to the campaign medal issued to the Royal Navy, Army or Royal Air Force to those giving them direct support or under their command

Any member of Voluntary Aid Societies who has served full-time and in uniform in direct support of the United Kingdom Armed Forces

Any British subject (by birth or otherwise) who has served one day in the Forces of an Allied nation during hostilities and received one day of pay from that nation

Any British subject (by birth or otherwise) who served in a resistance organisation of an Allied nation during hostilities in which the United Kingdom Armed Forces were engaged

Any person who served in the Home Guard for at least six months, or in a Bomb and Mine Disposal Unit for at least three months

Any person who was awarded the Defence Medal in respect of service in the Home Guard or in a Bomb and Mine Disposal Unit

We can also provide support for Commonwealth citizens who are residents in the UK as well as past and present members of the Brigade of Gurkhas and their families. Find out more about eligibility online.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Who We Help | Armed Forces Charity | Royal British Legion

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We're here to help our Armed Forces community. Our support starts after one day of service and continues through life, long after service is over.

# data[].attributes.body
Depending on your circumstances you may be entitled to a one off grant if you are dealing with a crisis

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Use the Turn2us Grants Search to find out which grants you may be eligible for.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Discretionary Assistance Fund provides 2 types of grant that you don’t need to pay back.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Debt advice | Free debt advice | National Debtline | National Debtline

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
National Debtline is a debt advice service run by the Money Advice Trust. The Money Advice Trust is a registered charity: no. 1099506. A company limited by guarantee Registered in England and Wales: no. 4741583.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Our friendly advisers can help you get the support you need if you're struggling to afford essentials like food, heating and toiletries. We can advise which benefits you're entitled to, guide you through any claims, and help you with emergency issues.

If you're feeling overwhelmed or struggling to cope, we can also refer you to Mind's Infoline. Their advisers will provide support and information to help you take care of your wellbeing.

Lines open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. Closed on public holidays.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Help through Hardship helpline - The Trussell Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If you're worried about money and struggling to afford essentials, call our free helpline for support from our friendly advisers.

# data[].attributes.body
Support for eligible households towards the cost of food and milk etc when you have a baby

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
What is Healthy Start?

If you're more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4, you may be entitled to get help to buy healthy food and milk.

If you're eligible, you'll be sent a Healthy Start card with money on it that you can use in some UK shops. We'll add your benefit onto this card every 4 weeks.

You can use your card to buy:

plain liquid cow's milk

fresh, frozen, and tinned fruit and vegetables

fresh, dried, and tinned pulses

infant formula milk based on cow's milk

You can also use your card to collect:

Healthy Start vitamins - these support you during pregnancy and breastfeeding

vitamin drops for babies and young children - these are suitable from birth to 4 years old

If you live in Scotland

You can get help from Best Start Foods (opens in a new tab) instead.

Advice on healthy eating

For more advice on healthy eating, visit:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If you're more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4, you may be entitled to get help to buy healthy food and milk. If you're eligible, you'll be sent a Healthy Start card with money on it that you can use in some UK shops.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Child Benefit - child benefit rates, eligibility, how to claim, child benefit claim form CH2.

# data[].attributes.body
Hints and tips if you are struggling to pay your mortgage

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
www.moneysavingexpert.com needs to review the security of your connection before proceeding.

# data[].attributes.body
Speak to your lender urgently and discuss the options available. Don't wait for them to contact you

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
If you get into debt ('in arrears') with your mortgage payments, don't wait for your lender to contact you.

They'll normally write to you within 15 days of a missed payment, but you should talk to them as soon as possible.

Lenders have to treat you fairly and consider any request you make to change the way you pay your mortgage.

They can take you to court to repossess your home if you can't agree a way to pay back what you owe. But even then, it's not too late to try to reach an agreement with them.

Work out what you can afford

You'll need to tell your lender how much you can afford to pay back, so it's a good idea to work out your budget before you call.

You can use our budgeting tool to do this, or you can talk to an adviser at your nearest Citizens Advice.

It's also a good idea to tell your lender if you've been speaking to a debt adviser. This shows them you're serious about dealing with the debt.

If you've got payment protection insurance, you should check if you can use it to pay the arrears on your mortgage. You might be covered if you've been ill or you've recently lost your job, for example.

Ways to pay your arrears

Your lender will discuss the different ways you can pay your mortgage arrears. If you've got any money left over each month after paying essential bills, you could suggest adding a little bit on top of your future monthly payments.
Example
You normally pay £400 a month for your mortgage, but last month you missed your payment.

Instead of paying what you owe in one amount, you could suggest paying it back in 4 monthly instalments of £100.

You'd add this £100 to your regular mortgage payment of £400, so for the next 4 months you'd pay your lender £500 a month.

Other ways of paying off the arrears on your mortgage

If your home is worth more than the mortgage, your lender might let you add your arrears to the total amount you owe and pay it back over the lifetime of the mortgage. This is known as 'capitalising your arrears'.

You might also be able to pay off your arrears using your pension or an endowment policy - which is a type of life assurance.

There's a chance you could end up paying lots of interest or even get into more debt with these options, so it's worth talking to an adviser at your nearest Citizens Advice first.

Reduce your monthly payments

If you're struggling to pay your mortgage every month, you could ask to:

pay the debt over a longer period

switch to interest-only payments

take a break from your payments for a few months - this is known as taking a 'repayment holiday'

If you get benefits, it's also worth checking if you're eligible for Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI). You might be able to use SMI to pay the interest on your mortgage.

If you can't agree a way of paying your arrears

Your lender might ask a court for a 'possession order'. This lets them sell your home and use the money from the sale to recover the money you owe.

Your lender has to give you at least 2 weeks notice in writing before they apply to the court.

You can read more about what to do if your mortgage lender takes you to court.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
agree repayment plan with mortgage lender

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
What happens if you miss a mortgage payment, including how to agree a repayment plan with your lender so you can pay your mortgage in smaller amounts

# data[].attributes.body
Support available includes:
- HelpU: a social tariff
- Request a short term payment break
- Spread the cost of your bill
- Water Sure- eligible to individuals on specific benefits who have a medical condition that requires extra water use

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
If you're having trouble affording to pay your bill, please don't ignore it. We have a number of ways we may be able to help you and make your bills more affordable.

Advice if you are struggling to pay your bill, or think you may struggle in future, but aren't in debt...
If you are in debt on your account, more advice is available further down this page.
Spread the cost of your bill

You can pay by instalments weekly, monthly, or 6 monthly, rather than paying in full when you receive your bill. Most of our customers prefer to pay by Direct Debit as it spreads the cost without charge, the payments are taken automatically, and it's covered by our Direct Debit guarantee. Alternatively you can set up a payment card if a direct debit isn't for you.

Save money with a water meter

If you live alone, not use much water, or are just looking to reduce your bill then you might save money by having a water meter installed, that way you'll only pay for the water you use. If you already have a water meter then you can save money by saving water, more information on how to be efficient with water is available here.

Request a short term payment break

If your problem is just a short term one, and you need a little help, we can temporarily reduce or postpose payments. You can apply for short term help online and we will review your circumstances and call you back with options which are suitable for you. You can do this using our online form.

If you receive benefits or have a low income

If you are already paying by instalments and you're still struggling, please don't ignore any problems. Take a look at our other schemes which might be able to help if you are in receipt of benefits or have a low income.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Support with bills | Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If you're having trouble affording to pay your bill, please don't ignore it. We have a number of ways we may be able to help you and make your bills more affordable. If you are in debt on your account, more advice is available further down this page.

# data[].attributes.body
If you/your husband/wife/civil partner earn less than their personal allowance (£12,570) you may be able to transfer some of your personal allowance to them

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Marriage Allowance lets you transfer £1,250 of your Personal Allowance to your husband, wife or civil partner - if they earn more than you.

This reduces their tax by up to £250 in the tax year (6 April to 5 April the next year).

To benefit as a couple, you (as the lower earner) must normally have an income below your Personal Allowance - this is usually £12,500.

You can calculate how much tax you could save as a couple. You should call the Income Tax helpline instead if you receive other income such as dividends or savings.

You can backdate your claim to include any tax year since 5 April 2015 that you were eligible for Marriage Allowance.

If your partner has died since 5 April 2015 you can still claim - phone the Income Tax helpline. If your partner was the lower earner, the person responsible for managing their tax affairs needs to phone.

Who can apply

You can benefit from Marriage Allowance if all the following apply:

you're married or in a civil partnership

you do not pay income tax or your income is below your Personal Allowance (usually £12,500)

your partner pays income tax at the basic rate, which usually means their income is between £12,501 and £50,000

If you're in Scotland, your partner must pay the starter, basic or intermediate rate, which usually means their income is between £12,500 and £43,430.

It will not affect your application for Marriage Allowance if you or your partner:

If you or your partner were born before 6 April 1935, you might benefit more as a couple by applying for Married Couple's Allowance instead.

You cannot get Marriage Allowance and Married Couple's Allowance at the same time.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Marriage Allowance lets you transfer £1,250 of your Personal Allowance to your husband, wife or civil partner - if they earn more than you. This reduces their tax by up to £250 in the tax year (6 April to 5 April the next year).

# data[].attributes.body
If your employer doesn't pay expenses for essential uniform etc you may be eligible for tax relief

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to main content

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We'd like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

Accept additional cookies Reject additional cookies View cookies

You may be able to claim tax relief on the cost of:

repairing or replacing small tools you need to do your job (for example, scissors or an electric drill)

cleaning, repairing or replacing specialist clothing (for example, a uniform or safety boots)

You cannot claim relief on the initial cost of buying small tools or clothing for work.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

You cannot claim tax relief for PPE. If your job requires you to use PPE your employer should either:

give you PPE free of charge

ask you to buy it and reimburse you the costs

How much you can claim

You can either claim:

the actual amount you've spent - you'll need to keep receipts

an agreed fixed amount (a 'flat rate expense' or 'flat rate deduction')

Check if your job has an agreed flat rate expense.
Check if you can claim

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Skip to main content We use some essential cookies to make this website work. We'd like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services. We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

# data[].attributes.body
Do you have a child born between 1 September 2002 and 2 January 2011?
If so, they will have a Child Trust Fund (£250 invested by UK Government when they were born). This can be accessed once they turn 18.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to main content

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We'd like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Accept additional cookies Reject additional cookies View cookies

Contact the Child Trust Fund provider directly if you know who the account is with.

If you do not know the Child Trust Fund provider, you can ask:

your parent or guardian

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to find a Child Trust Fund - they can tell you where the account was originally opened

Ask HMRC to find a Child Trust Fund

You can ask HMRC to find a Child Trust Fund if you're:

a parent or guardian of a child under 18

16 or over and looking for your own trust fund

You can either:

To use the online form you'll need:

your National Insurance number

a Government Gateway user ID and password - if you do not have a user ID, you can create one the first time you sign in

Request by post

You'll need to send some information to help HMRC find a Child Trust Fund. What you need to send depends on if you're looking for your own trust fund or a child's trust fund.

If you're looking for your own Child Trust Fund, you'll need to send your:

If you're a parent or guardian looking for a child's trust fund, you'll need to send:

your full name, address and date of birth

the child's full name, address and date of birth

any previous names you or the child have used

your National Insurance number

You can also send the child's National Insurance number if you have it.

Write to:

What happens next

You'll get a letter from HMRC with details of the Child Trust Fund provider. You'll usually get this within 3 weeks of HMRC getting your request.

If you've adopted the child or a court has given you parental responsibility for them, you'll get a letter asking for more information.

If you do not get a response within 3 weeks, write to HMRC at the address you used before. Include your reference number if you have one.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Child Trust Fund accounts - find a lost account, how to make payments, managing the account

# data[].attributes.body
Pension Credit gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you’re over State Pension age and on a low income.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to main content

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We'd like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Accept additional cookies Reject additional cookies View cookies

Pension Credit gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you're over State Pension age and on a low income. Pension Credit can also help with housing costs such as ground rent or service charges.

You might get extra help if you're a carer, severely disabled, or responsible for a child or young person.

Pension Credit is separate from your State Pension.

You can get Pension Credit even if you have other income, savings or own your own home.

Other help if you get Pension Credit

If you get Pension Credit you can also get other help, such as:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Pension Credit is extra money for pensioners to bring your weekly income up to a minimum amount - what you'll get, apply, eligibility.

# data[].attributes.body
There are some situations where you may receive a free/discounted TV licence

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
It costs £159 for a colour TV Licence and £53.50 for a black and white TV Licence. In some cases, you may be entitled to a reduced fee TV Licence (see table below).

You can pay for your licence all in one go or spread the cost.

Aged 74 and over

If you are aged 74 or over, you could be entitled to a free licence. Anyone aged 75 or over receiving Pension Credit is eligible to apply for a free TV Licence, paid for by the BBC. Pension Credit can be in the name of the licence holder, or in their partner's name if they are a couple.

Care home residents

Residents may qualify for a discounted TV Licence fee of £7.50. Residents, staff and residents' families all need a separate licence for their own living area.

Blind (severely sight impaired)?

You're entitled to a 50% reduction in your TV Licence fee if you're blind (severely sight impaired).

Some businesses can apply for a TV Licence to cover a number of accommodation or mobile units (for hotels, hostels, mobile units and campsites), or entertainment units (for hospitality areas). For more information, visit the pages below:

Hotels, hostels, mobile units and campsites

Hospitality areas

The licence fee will be based on the number of units offered where a TV receiver is installed or used.

To cover up to 15 units

You only need to pay one fee of £159.

To cover more than 15 units

You pay one fee for the first 15 units and an additional fee of £159 for every extra 5 units or fewer.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
It costs £159 for a colour TV Licence and £53.50 for a black and white TV Licence. In some cases, you may be entitled to a reduced fee TV Licence (see table below). You can pay for your licence all in one go or spread the cost.

# data[].attributes.body
If you have a question or need guidance on a topic not covered, click on the link to complete a form anonymously.

I will then update this padlet with the requested information/resources

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Easily create surveys and polls to collect customer feedback, measure employee satisfaction, and organize team events.

# data[].attributes.body
If you need a direct response to your query, you are welcome to send me an email outlining your query. nigel.oanea-cram@trussell.org.uk

In doing so, you are consenting to me responding to your query.

I will not pass on details of any individual raising a query to any other individual. If I believe information relating to the query will benefit others, I will also post generic information to this padlet.

# data[].attributes.body
Are you caring for someone for at least 35 hours per week, and they receive certain benefits?

If so, you may be entitled to Carer's Allowance. Have a look at the website for more information re eligibility

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to main content

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We'd like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Accept additional cookies Reject additional cookies View cookies

You could get £76.75 a week if you care for someone at least 35 hours a week and they get certain benefits.

You do not have to be related to, or live with, the person you care for.

You do not get paid extra if you care for more than one person.

If someone else also cares for the same person as you, only one of you can claim Carer's Allowance.

This guide is also available in Welsh (Cymraeg) and in an easy read format.

How you're paid

You can choose to be paid weekly in advance or every 4 weeks.

It will be paid into an account, for example your bank account.

What else you can get

For each week you get Carer's Allowance you'll automatically get National Insurance credits.

You may also be able to apply for:

If you live in Scotland

If you live in Scotland and get Carer's Allowance, you may also get Carer's Allowance Supplement.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Apply for Carer's Allowance - money to help you look after someone who needs to be cared for. Apply online or use form DS700.

# data[].attributes.body
The national 111 helpline now has mental health support available.
Press option 2 when prompted- you will then be put through to a mental health worker.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Universal Credit is paid monthly. How much you get depends on:

your standard allowance

any extra amounts that apply to you

any money taken off your payment

if you're working, how much you earn

See how much you could get by using a benefits calculator.

Standard allowance

You'll get one standard allowance for your household.

How much you'll get

Monthly standard allowance

If you're single and under 25

£292.11

If you're single and 25 or over

£368.74

If you live with your partner and you're both under 25

£458.51 (for you both)

If you live with your partner and either of you are 25 or over

£578.82 (for you both)

Extra amounts

You may get more money on top of your standard allowance if you're eligible.

If you have children

You could get an extra amount for your children if they live with you. You would get the extra amount until the 31 August after their:

16th birthday

19th birthday, if they're in eligible education or training - for example, they're studying for GCSEs, A levels, BTECs, Scottish Highers and SVQs or NVQs up to level 3

You'll only get an extra amount for your first and second child. You will not get an extra amount for any more children unless:

your children were born before 6 April 2017

you were already claiming for 3 or more children before 6 April 2017

other exceptions apply

How much you'll get

Extra monthly amount

For your first child

£315.00 (born before 6 April 2017)
£269.58 (born on or after 6 April 2017)

For your second child and any other eligible children

£269.58 per child

You'll also get an extra amount if any of your children are disabled. You're eligible for this extra amount no matter how many children you have.

You'll get:

£146.31 if your child is disabled

£456.89 if your child is severely disabled

Childcare costs

You can claim back up to 85% of your childcare costs if you're working. If you live with your partner both of you need to be working, unless one of you is unable to work due to a disability or health condition.

The childcare needs to be from a registered provider. You can get help paying for childcare including nurseries, childminders, breakfast clubs, after school care and holiday clubs.

The most you can get each month is:

You need to pay your childcare costs up front and claim the money back as part of your payment. You can get support to help you pay your childcare costs up front. Talk to your work coach after you've made your claim.

Read more about childcare costs and Universal Credit.

If you have a disability or health condition

How much you'll get

Extra monthly amount

If you have limited capability for work and work-related activity

£390.06

If you have limited capability for work and you started your health-related Universal Credit or Employment and Support Allowance ( ESA) claim before 3 April 2017

£146.31

If you get the severe disability premium and you're moving to Universal Credit, you might also be entitled to a 'transitional protection' payment.

Read more about health conditions, disability and Universal Credit.

How much you'll get

Extra monthly amount

If you provide care for at least 35 hours a week for someone who gets a health or disability-related benefit

£185.86

This is on top of any extra amount you get if you have a disabled child.

Housing costs

You could get money to help pay your housing costs. The payment can cover rent and some service charges.

If you're a homeowner, you might be able to get a loan to help with interest payments on your mortgage.

Money taken off your payment

Your payments might be reduced if any of the following apply:

you are paying back an advance on a Universal Credit payment

you have more than £6,000 in money, savings and investments

you would get above the amount limited by the benefit cap

you've been overpaid benefits in the past

you owe money for Council Tax, court fines, electricity, gas, water or Child Maintenance

you pay your gas or electricity bill directly from your Universal Credit payment

you have other income - for example, money from pensions or certain other benefits

Find out more about money taken off your Universal Credit payment.

Moving to Universal Credit from other benefits

If you've applied for Universal Credit, you'll keep getting your current benefit paid for 2 more weeks. You must still be eligible for your current benefit.

This only applies if you're getting:

You will not need to pay back the extra payments and they will not affect the Universal Credit you might get.

Other support you could get

If you receive Universal Credit you may also be able to get other financial support depending on your circumstances.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Universal Credit is replacing 6 other benefits with a single monthly payment if you're out of work or on a low income - eligibility, how to prepare.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to main content

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We'd like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Accept additional cookies Reject additional cookies View cookies

How much Personal Independence Payment ( PIP) you get depends on how difficult you find:

everyday activities ('daily living' tasks)

getting around ('mobility' tasks)

Find out what tasks count as daily living and mobility tasks.

PIP amounts

PIP is tax free. The amount you get is not affected by your income or savings.

How you're paid

PIP is usually paid every 4 weeks.

Your decision letter tells you:

the date of your first payment

what day of the week you'll usually be paid

how long you'll get PIP for

when and if your claim will be reviewed

If your payment date is on a bank holiday, you'll usually be paid before the bank holiday. After that you'll continue to get paid as normal.

All benefits, pensions and allowances are paid into your bank, building society or credit union account.

Other help you can get

If you get the mobility part of PIP, you might be eligible for a:

If you get either the daily living or mobility part of PIP you're eligible for a Disabled Persons Railcard.

You may be able to get a discount on Council Tax and local bus travel. Contact your local council to check.

If someone helps to care for you, they may be able to get Carer's Allowance or Carer's Credit.

If you get other benefits and PIP

You may get a top-up (called a disability premium) if you get:

Income Support

income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)

income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

Housing Benefit

You might get the disability element of Working Tax Credit if you're eligible.

If you get Constant Attendance Allowance you'll get less of the daily living part of PIP.

If you get War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement you will not get the mobility part of PIP.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Skip to main content We use some essential cookies to make this website work. We'd like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services. We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to main content

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We'd like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Accept additional cookies Reject additional cookies View cookies

You can get £109.40 a week Statutory Sick Pay ( SSP) for up to 28 weeks.

You can get SSP from the fourth day you're off sick.

If you're eligible, you'll be paid SSP for all the days you're off sick that you normally would have worked, except for the first 3.

You'll only be paid SSP for the first 3 working days you are off sick if either of the following apply:

the period you were away from work started before 25 March 2022 and you were off sick because of coronavirus (COVID-19)

you received SSP within the last 8 weeks, and that already included a 3-day waiting period before you were paid SSP

Check you're eligible for SSP.

How you're paid

SSP is paid by your employer in the same way as your normal wages, for example weekly or monthly.

If you have more than one job you may get SSP from each employer.

Tax and National Insurance will be deducted.

If you think you are not getting the right amount of SSP, talk to your employer. If you're still not happy, contact the HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) enquiry line.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Your Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) - how much you get, eligibility, how to claim SSP, fit notes, disputes.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to main content

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We'd like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Accept additional cookies Reject additional cookies View cookies

Statutory Maternity Pay ( SMP) is paid for up to 39 weeks. You get:

90% of your average weekly earnings (before tax) for the first 6 weeks

£172.48 or 90% of your average weekly earnings (whichever is lower) for the next 33 weeks

SMP is paid in the same way as your wages (for example monthly or weekly). Tax and National Insurance will be deducted.

If you take Shared Parental Leave you'll get Statutory Shared Parental Pay (ShPP). ShPP is £172.48 a week or 90% of your average weekly earnings, whichever is lower.

SMP usually starts when you take your maternity leave.

It starts automatically if you're off work for a pregnancy-related illness in the 4 weeks before the week (Sunday to Saturday) that your baby is due.

Problems and disputes

Ask your employer to explain your SMP if you think it's not right. If you disagree about the amount or your employer cannot pay (for example because they're insolvent), contact the Statutory Payment Disputes Team.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Your Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) and Leave - what you get, how to claim, maternity rights and extra help

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to main content

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We'd like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Accept additional cookies Reject additional cookies View cookies

You could get £76.75 a week if you care for someone at least 35 hours a week and they get certain benefits.

You do not have to be related to, or live with, the person you care for.

You do not get paid extra if you care for more than one person.

If someone else also cares for the same person as you, only one of you can claim Carer's Allowance.

This guide is also available in Welsh (Cymraeg) and in an easy read format.

How you're paid

You can choose to be paid weekly in advance or every 4 weeks.

It will be paid into an account, for example your bank account.

What else you can get

For each week you get Carer's Allowance you'll automatically get National Insurance credits.

You may also be able to apply for:

If you live in Scotland

If you live in Scotland and get Carer's Allowance, you may also get Carer's Allowance Supplement.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Apply for Carer's Allowance - money to help you look after someone who needs to be cared for. Apply online or use form DS700.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
How much basic State Pension you get depends on your National Insurance record.

The full basic State Pension is £156.20 per week.

You may have to pay tax on your State Pension.

If you're a man born on or after 6 April 1951 or a woman born on or after 6 April 1953, you'll get the new State Pension instead.

Qualifying for the full amount

To get the full basic State Pension you need a certain number of qualifying years of National Insurance.

If you're a man you usually need:

30 qualifying years if you were born between 1945 and 1951

44 qualifying years if you were born before 1945

If you're a woman you usually need:

30 qualifying years if you were born between 1950 and 1953

39 qualifying years if were born before 1950

If you have fewer than the full number of qualifying years, your basic State Pension will be less than £156.20 per week.

Check your National Insurance record to find out how many qualifying years you have.

What counts as a National Insurance qualifying year

A qualifying year counts if, in that year, one or more of the following applies:

When you can get more than the full basic State Pension

You might get more if:

You can defer even if you've started getting the basic State Pension. The basic State Pension increases by 1% for every 5 weeks you defer.

Annual increases

The basic State Pension increases every year by whichever is the highest of the following:

Temporary change for the tax year starting April 2022

The basic State Pension has increased by 3.1% this year, in line with CPI.

The average earnings growth was higher, but those figures were affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and so they were not taken into account.

Other benefits you might be eligible for

If you're on a low income, you may be eligible to apply for Pension Credit, even if you've saved money for retirement.

If you have a disability and someone helps look after you, you may be eligible for Attendance Allowance.

You may be eligible for other benefits and financial support.

Adult Dependency Increase payments have stopped.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
How to claim the basic State Pension and how it's calculated - for men born before 6 April 1951 and women born before 6 April 1953.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Universal Credit is a monthly payment to help with your living costs. You may be able to get it if you're on a low income, out of work or you cannot work.

Find out if you're eligible for Universal Credit.

If you live in Northern Ireland, go to Universal Credit in Northern Ireland.

Apply for Universal Credit.

Reporting your income and expenses

At the end of each monthly assessment period, you'll need to report:

how much you earned from self-employment, even if it's nothing

any money you paid into a pension

payments into and out of your business

This also applies to company directors, even those paying themselves by PAYE.

Do this by completing the 'Report your income and expenses' section in your online Universal Credit account.

Payments into and out of your business

You'll need to report payments into and out of your business in each monthly assessment period. This includes:

the total amount your business received

how much your business spent on different types of expenses, such as travel costs, stock, equipment and tools, protective clothing and office costs

how much tax and National Insurance your business paid

There's more guidance about reporting your income and expenses from self-employment, which includes how to work out your income and the expenses you can include.

Your business's property

You do not need to report things your company already owns ('business assets'), such as machinery, buildings or cash in your company account.

Showing that self-employment is your main work

To claim Universal Credit if you're self-employed, you need to show that self-employment is your main work.

This includes showing that:

self-employment is your main job or your main source of income

you get regular work from self-employment

your work is organised - this means you have invoices and receipts, or accounts

you expect to make a profit

Do this by giving your work coach evidence of your:

tax returns, accounts and any business plan

Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR), if you're registered for Self Assessment

customer and supplier lists, receipts and invoices

marketing materials

If you can show all these things, you'll be considered 'gainfully self-employed'. This means you do not have to look for other work and can concentrate on growing your business.

If you cannot show all these things, you might have to look for other work if you want to keep getting Universal Credit.

This depends on your circumstances - you'll agree this when you meet your work coach.

How your Universal Credit payment is worked out

Your Universal Credit payment will be based on the earnings you report at the end of each monthly assessment period.

If you're gainfully self-employed, your Universal Credit payment may be calculated using an assumed level of earnings, called a minimum income floor.

It's based on what an employed person on minimum wage would expect to earn in similar circumstances.

If you earn more than this, then your Universal Credit amount is based on your actual earnings.

If you earn less, the minimum income floor is used to work out how much you can get. You may need to look for additional work to top up your income.

If you're both self-employed and employed

Your Universal Credit payment will be calculated based on your combined earnings from self-employment and employment.

If you make a loss from self-employment, only your employment earnings will be used to calculate how much Universal Credit you get.

Get a start up period

You may be eligible for a 12 month start up period if you're self-employed. Your work coach can tell you if you can get a start up period for your business.

During your start up period your monthly earnings are used to work out your Universal Credit and the minimum income floor does not apply. You'll also receive support from a work coach who's trained to work with the self-employed.

You'll need to attend quarterly appointments with your work coach, providing evidence to show that you're still gainfully self-employed and actively taking steps to build your business.

You're only entitled to one start up period, unless it has been more than 5 years since your previous one, and you've started a completely different type of self-employment.

Reporting changes in your circumstances

You'll need to report any change in circumstances, for example if you:

close your business

start a different kind of business

take a permanent job

are no longer able to work

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Claiming Universal Credit if you're self-employed - eligibility, reporting your earnings, start up periods

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Self employment and benefits: Frequently asked questions

1. Can I get self-employed Maternity Pay?

Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) is paid by an employer when an employee leaves work to have a baby. If you are self employed, you cannot get Statutory Maternity Pay as you are working for yourself and therefore do not have an employer.

If you are self employed and temporarily unable to work due to having a baby, you should check if you qualify for Maternity Allowance.

2. I am self employed. Can I claim paternity benefits?

The main paternity benefit is Statutory Paternity Pay. This is paid by an employer to an employee who meets the qualifying conditions to cover a period of leave for a birth or an adoption. If you are self employed, you cannot get Statutory Paternity Pay as you are working for yourself and therefore do not have an employer.

3. Can I get self-employed Sick Pay?

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is paid by an employer when an employee is unable to work due to sickness. If you are self employed, you cannot get Statutory Sick Pay as you are working for yourself and therefore do not have an employer.

If you are self employed and temporarily unable to work due to illness, you should check if you have made enough national insurance contributions to qualify for New Style Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).

4. Can a self-employed person get any help to pay the mortgage on their home?

You will only be able to get help towards the mortgage interest payments on your home if you are entitled to one of the following benefits:

You cannot make new claims for Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance or income-related Employment and Support Allowance. You cannot get Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance and income-related Employment and Support Allowance if you work more than 16 hours or more per week, or your partner who you live with works more than 24 hours per week.

If you work part time and your earnings, other income and capital are low enough and you meet the other rules for these benefits, you might be able to claim a Support for Mortgage Interest Loan.

To find out whether you can get one of these benefits while working self-employed, use our Benefits Calculator.

If you get Universal Credit, you can only claim a Support for Mortgage Interest loan if you have no earned income at all.

5. Can I get any help growing/starting my business?

There are various schemes to support self employed people develop their business.

Different schemes run in different countries of the UK.

Ask your work coach or check our page on getting into work for more information.

Reviewed: April 2022

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If you or your partner are working, or thinking of starting work, as a self employed person you might qualify for welfare benefits to top up your income.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Cost of living support for the self-employed | MoneyHelper

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If you’re self-employed and have been financially hit by the coronavirus pandemic and high living costs, find out what help is out there for you.

# data[].attributes.headline
Personal insurance when you are self employed

# data[].attributes.subject
Personal insurance when you are self employed

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
If you run your business from your home, it's important not to assume your personal household insurance will cover you.

Typically, home and contents insurance policies, or your business insurance, will cover business equipment in your home.

But there's a difference between being covered if you occasionally work from home, and running a business from home.

If you work from home, make sure your insurer understands this and check the terms and conditions to see if you might need any extra cover.

This is because if you're running a business or working from home, your insurer might change the way it assesses your cover.

If you're setting up your business from home, the best thing to do first is to talk to your current insurer and explain your plans.

They might ask for an additional premium on your current insurance.

If you don't tell your insurers and you need to make a claim, you might find that your insurance is invalid and the claim won't be paid.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Personal insurance when you're self-employed | MoneyHelper

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If you run your business from your home, it's important not to assume your personal household insurance will cover you. Typically, home and contents insurance policies, or your business insurance, will cover business equipment in your home. But there's a difference between being covered if you occasionally work from home, and running a business from home.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
If your child's other parent isn't paying you child maintenance or is only paying some of it, there are steps you can take. What you can do depends on how you've arranged to get maintenance.

You might have arranged payments:

The payments the other parent should have made are called 'arrears'.

If you have a private arrangement

If you can, you should try to talk to the other parent to find out why they're not paying.

If you can't, you'll need to ask the Child Maintenance Service (CMS) to collect your child maintenance instead. Tell them your private arrangement has broken down because the other parent didn't pay. Find out how to arrange maintenance through the CMS.

The CMS can't make the other parent pay any arrears they already owe you.

You can read more about what you can do to get maintenance arrears if you had a private arrangement.

If the CMS arranged child maintenance for you

What you need to do depends on how you get your payments. You'll get your child maintenance through either:

If you get maintenance by Direct Pay
Child Maintenance Service
Child Maintenance Service 21

Mail Handling Site A

Wolverhampton

WV98 2BU

Telephone: 0800 171 2345

Saturday, 9am to 4.30pm

The CMS can:

If you get maintenance through the Collect and Pay service

If the other parent won't agree to repay the arrears

There are things the CMS can do to get the money you're owed from the other parent. These are called 'enforcement measures'.

The CMS can try to get the arrears from the other parent's earnings, benefits, or bank or building society account.

If that doesn't clear the arrears, the CMS can apply to court for a 'liability order'. This means they can ask bailiffs to take goods from the other parent and sell them.

If the other parent owns their home, the CMS can also ask a court for an order to sell it. The CMS can use any money raised to pay off the arrears.

If this doesn't clear the arrears, the CMS can ask a court to consider:

If you're not happy with how the CMS is collecting the arrears

The CMS will decide how to collect the arrears. You should contact the CMS if either:

You can write or call. You should explain the effect on the welfare of your child. For example, you might be falling behind with your rent or have no money to buy their school uniform.

If you write, keep a copy of your letter.

If you call, make a note of when you called, who you spoke to and what they said. Follow your call up with a letter so you have a written record. You might need that in case of any dispute in the future.

If you're sending a letter, ask the Post Office for free proof of postage - you might need to show when you sent it.
Child Maintenance Service
Child Maintenance Service 21

Mail Handling Site A

Wolverhampton

WV98 2BU

Telephone: 0800 171 2345

Relay UK - if you can't hear or speak on the phone, you can type what you want to say: 18001 then 0800 232 1975

You can use Relay UK with an app or a textphone. There's no extra charge to use it. Find out how to use Relay UK on the Relay UK website.

Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 3.30pm.

Calls are free from mobiles and landlines.

If you think the delay has been too long or the CMS is being unreasonable, you can make a complaint or get compensation.

If you're willing to accept less money to clear the arrears

You can agree to clear the arrears by accepting a single payment that's less than the full amount you're owed. Either you or the other parent can suggest doing this.

This is known as a 'part payment in full and final settlement'. You might want to accept it if you think it's better to get some money rather than none at all.

The part payment will only clear the arrears. If your child still qualifies for maintenance, the other parent will have to keep making regular payments.

If you agree to a part payment, you can't change your mind later. The other parent won't owe you the arrears any more.

If you've been offered a part payment, you might want to talk to an adviser before you accept.

If you want to accept a part payment, you'll have to get the CMS to agree to it too. They won't agree if they think:

If both parents and the CMS agree to a part payment, the CMS will confirm it in writing. They'll give details of how and when the part payment should be made.

If the other parent doesn't pay, the CMS can cancel the agreement and try to get the arrears back in other ways.

If you've had too much child maintenance

The arrears you're owed could be reduced or cancelled if you've received too much maintenance because your situation has changed. This is known as 'offsetting'. It's most likely to happen if you got more maintenance than you were entitled to because:

If the other parent has died

You can ask the CMS to try to recover child maintenance arrears from what the other parent owned when they died. This is called their 'estate'. The CMS doesn't have to agree to do this.

The CMS might cancel the payments owed to you. This is called 'writing off the arrears'. It means the arrears won't exist anymore. The CMS might do this if they can't:

The CMS will write to tell you they want to write off arrears. They'll tell you:

They'll ask you if you think they should write off the arrears. You'll have 30 days to reply. You should say why you might still need the money, like if you have debts. If you know who's dealing with the estate, you should tell that to the CMS too.

The CMS will take your views into account before making a final decision. You can't appeal if they decide to write off the arrears, but you can make a complaint.

If you're owed arrears under the Child Support Agency schemes

You might be owed arrears under the 1993 or 2003 child maintenance schemes. These schemes used to be managed by the Child Support Agency.

The CMS won't always try to collect these arrears - it depends how much you're owed and how old the debt is.

The CMS will write to you to tell you if:

If you're owed arrears under the 1993 or 2003 child maintenance schemes, you can talk to an adviser.

Page last reviewed on 27 October 2020

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find out what you can do if you're not getting the child maintenance payments you're owed

# data[].attributes.headline
Claiming Child Maintenance safely when there's been domestic abuse

# data[].attributes.subject
Claiming Child Maintenance safely when there's been domestic abuse

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
A guide to claiming safely

This guide explains how to prepare to make a claim and make sure you're getting all the protection you should from the CMS.

If you're not offered the options set out here, you can specifically ask the CMS for them - and make a complaint if necessary.

You and your child's safety is the most important thing. You might want to think about how the child's other parent might react to a claim for child maintenance. Women's Aid has useful advice for people of any gender about leaving a relationship safely .

Step 1 - Use the Get help arranging child maintenance service

Before you can apply to the CMS, you have to use the Get help arranging child maintenance service. This has been designed with people who have experienced domestic abuse in mind.

There's a big red 'hide this page' button on every page in case you need to keep what you're doing private. Clicking this changes the page to BBC Weather.

There's also a link that says Get help if you have experienced domestic abuse - this takes you through to the gov.uk page with lots of support options.

The page explains what to do if you're worried about contacting the child's other parent.

When asked what type of arrangement you want to make, choose 'Use the Child Maintenance Service'. This will mean you don't have to contact the child's other parent yourself. You'll be given a reference number to use in your application to the CMS.

Step 2 - Apply to the CMS

Most people make an application to the CMS online - it's usually quicker than by phone. You'll need to use the reference number you got in step 1.

If you don't want to apply online, you'll need to call the CMS . When you call, you should be asked if you've experienced domestic abuse. If you think making a claim will put you in danger, the adviser will direct you to free, confidential help and support . You'll also be offered help in contacting the police.

The CMS adviser should give you specific advice and options for making a claim safely. Let them know it's not safe for the other parent to know your name (if you've changed it) or your location.

Step 3 - Set up direct pay

The CMS should offer you a way to get paid called direct pay. This means you won't need to have any contact at all with your child's other parent. The CMS will contact them and share your bank details so you don't have to. They'll keep your identity and location confidential at all times.

Step 4 - Keep your location safe

The CMS should send you information about how to set up a 'non-geographic' bank account for the child maintenance payments. This kind of bank account can't be traced to help protect your identity and location.

Step 5 - Make sure you're not charged the £20 fee

You shouldn't have to pay the £20 fee to use the CMS if you've experienced domestic abuse and reported it to an 'appropriate person'. This could be the police, a medical professional, social services, your employer or a specialist support organisation like Refuge or Citizens Advice.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Claiming child maintenance safely when there's been domestic abuse | Gingerbread

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If you've experienced domestic abuse, there are processes to help you safely claim child maintenance through the Child Maintenance Service.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Use the Turn2us PIP Helper to learn how to manage each stage of your PIP (personal independence payment) application process.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Get help paying your mortgage with a Help to Stay shared equity loan | GOV.WALES

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Get more information about the Help to Stay scheme application process.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
If your current or former partner has interfered with your money, financial situation or the things that money can buy in some way to limit your choices, this section of our website is for you.
Economic abuse often occurs alongside other forms of abuse. It is commonly part of a pattern of behaviour called coercive control. If you are in immediate danger, call the police on 999. If you are not in immediate danger but have concerns about your safety, there are domestic abuse helplines that you can call, many of which offer a 24-hour service.

Information on economic abuse

This information may support you to identify economic abuse and the next steps that you might take.

Other support

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If a current or former partner has interfered with your money or other economic resources to limit your choices, this information is for you.