Help to Claim
If residents have lost their job or seen reduced hours, they might be eligible for Universal Credit. Many in-work households do not claim as they do not know what they are entitled to.
Help to Claim is a service to help people in the early stages of a Universal Credit claim. Support is available on freephone 0800 144 8444 (Monday - Friday 8am to 6pm).
Information on Universal Credit, advance payment, and the migration from 'legacy benefits' is available on the Understanding Universal Credit website.
Pension Credit
If you are of pensioner age and not in receipt of Pension Credit, use the online pension credit calculator to see if you are eligible. This could boost your income up to £3,300 a year.
Pension Credit claim line 0800 99 1234.
Discretionary Housing Payments
Discretionary Housing Payments may be awarded in special circumstances to provide additional financial help with housing costs, - payments are normally only for a limited period only.
See our webpage to read about and apply for Discretionary Housing Payments.
Stop Loan Sharks
Stop Loan Sharks investigates and prosecutes illegal money lenders and provides support for borrowers in the UK.
If you have borrowed from a loan shark or are worried about someone else, we’re here to help and keep you safe. For more information see the Stop Loan Sharks website.
Citizens Advice - work out your budget tool
The citizens advice website has a helpful online tool that can help you understand what you’re earning and spending and where you might be able to cut costs. Find more information on the Citizens advice website.
Step Change - Making a budget
Making a budget is the first step towards taking control of your finances and getting your situation back on track. Budgeting helps you to see where your money is going, so it’s easier to make sure that you’ve covered all of the things you need to pay for. Find more information on the Step Change website.
Household Support Fund
On Monday 20 February, the government announced that Lincolnshire would be awarded a further £10,929,370 for the fourth round of the Household Support Fund, which covers the period from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024. Having reviewed the guidance provided by the government on how this funding can be used, local authorities are now working to provide an application-based process to ensure this funding is distributed through local channels in line with grant conditions. Further details on this process will be published here once agreed.
Find the most up to date information on the Household Support Fund on the Lincolnshire County Council website.
Residents facing financial difficulties can also visit the Government help for households webpages for details of the other support available.