Benefits and Tax Credits

Disability Living Allowance

Carer's Allowance

Tax Credits

Child Trust Fund

Other benefits

Education

Short breaks

Disabled children's services

Working

Childcare

Aids and equipment

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Introduction

There are a number of benefits and tax credits that you may be entitled to. Some benefits can be paid because your child is disabled while others may be paid to you for other reasons. For example, you may be getting Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for your child and Carer's Allowance as their carer. You may also be able to claim Income Support and/or Child Tax Credit depending on your income.

Eligibility criteria

Each benefit and tax credit has its own set of eligibility criteria. This means you need to meet certain conditions to qualify.

• To claim contribution-based benefits you need to have paid national insurance contributions in the past.
• To claim means-tested benefits you must be on a low income, with savings of less than a certain amount.
• To claim tax credits you must either have children or be in work - and the amount will depend on the household income but not savings.
• For non-means-tested benefits like Disability Living Allowance, the claimant will need to meet criteria not related to work, income or savings.

When to claim

When you know which benefit or tax credit to claim, telephone the appropriate office straight away. It is difficult to get awards backdated. Some benefits (for example DLA) can't be paid for a period before the date you claimed, no matter what the circumstances. Claim now, even if you are not sure you qualify, as you could miss out if you delay. The Contact a Family helpline, a local CAB or welfare rights unit can carry out a full benefits check for you.

How are benefits paid?

Some benefits are paid as tax credits by HM Revenue and Customs (referred to here as the Revenue). Different offices of the Department for Work and Pensions pay most other benefits. However, Housing and Council Tax Benefits are paid by your local authority. Benefits and tax credits are usually paid directly into a parent's bank account. Any benefits for your child - such as DLA and Child Benefit - will be paid to you as their parent. When your child reaches 16 they may be able to claim benefits in their own right.