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Income Support
Income Support is a
means-tested benefit for people who are not in full-time work and
are not required for look for work, for example, certain lone
parents, pregnant and within 11 weeks of confinement, and carers.
It can either top up some form of income, for
example, part-time earnings, other benefits, maintenance or it
can be the sole income where no other money is coming in.
Who can claim Income Support?
To be eligible a claimant must:
- have less than £16,000 in savings;
- be aged between 16 and state pension age;
- work less than 16 hours a week (partner less than 24
hours);
- be at least 18 years old (special rules apply for 16 to 17-year-olds);
- not be in full-time education;
- not be required to sign on as unemployed, that is, carers,
pregnant, certain lone parents etc;
- Satisfy the Habitual Residence Test and be present in Great
Britain.
How is Income Support worked out?
Income Support is the difference between the amount of money the
law says you need to live on and the money you already have coming
in.
The amount of money the law says you need to live on is made up
of allowances, premiums and certain housing costs.
How much do you get?
The amount of Income Support you may get varies according to
your individual circumstances. Some factors that can affect how
much you'll get include:
- your age;
- if you live alone or as a couple;
- age and income of non-dependents living with you;
- any savings of more than £6,000 you or your partner have;
- any earnings you or your partner have;
- if you're caring for someone;
- disability - including disability of dependents.
How to claim
Go to GOV.UK and download an income support
claim form or phone 0800 055 6688.
Income Support leaflet
Download the Income Support leaflet (pdf
78KB).
To use this file you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you do
not have it on your computer, please use the advice
page.
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