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Benefits Guides

Plain-English guides to every major UK benefit. We translate complex DWP regulations into clear, actionable advice — so you know exactly what you're entitled to and how to claim it.

Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

Most Claimed

The most complex benefit — and the most worth fighting for

PIP helps with the extra costs of living with a long-term health condition or disability. It is assessed on how your condition affects your daily life and mobility — not your diagnosis. This guide explains exactly how to score points under each descriptor.

Daily Living componentMobility componentAssessment criteriaMedical evidenceMandatory ReconsiderationTribunal appeals
25 min read

Universal Credit (UC)

8.4m Claimants

The main working-age benefit replacing six legacy benefits

Universal Credit has replaced Income Support, Housing Benefit, Child Tax Credit, Working Tax Credit, ESA (income-related), and JSA (income-related). This guide covers eligibility, how your payments are calculated, the health element (LCWRA), and how to challenge decisions.

Standard allowanceHealth element (LCWRA)Housing costs elementChildcare elementSanctions and deductionsChallenging decisions
30 min read

Employment & Support Allowance (ESA)

Support for those unable to work due to illness or disability

ESA provides financial support if you have a disability or health condition that affects how much you can work. The Work Capability Assessment determines whether you are placed in the Work-Related Activity Group or the Support Group. This guide explains both assessments in detail.

Work Capability AssessmentSupport Group criteriaWRAG criteriaContribution-based ESAIncome-related ESATransitioning to UC
20 min read

Carer's Allowance

Often Missed

Support for those providing substantial caring responsibilities

Carer's Allowance is the main benefit for carers. You may be eligible if you spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone who receives certain disability benefits. This guide explains the eligibility rules, the earnings limit, and how to claim.

Eligibility criteriaEarnings limit (£151/wk)Underlying entitlementCarer's CreditEffect on other benefitsCarer's element in UC
15 min read

Housing Benefit

Help with rent costs for those on low income

Housing Benefit helps people on low incomes pay their rent. It is being replaced by Universal Credit for most working-age people, but pensioners and some others can still claim. This guide explains who can still claim, how it is calculated, and how to challenge a decision.

Who can still claimLocal Housing AllowanceBedroom tax (spare room subsidy)Discretionary Housing PaymentsTransitioning to UCChallenging decisions
15 min read