Where to get benefits advice
From 1 August 2023 you can get early legal advice if you need help with benefits and are at risk of losing your home.
This advice is free no matter what your income is.
Search for a local adviser on gov.uk. Tick 'Housing Loss Prevention Advice Service'.
A benefits adviser can help you:
claim benefits
deal with disputes and delays
check your benefit entitlement
They can advise on universal credit (UC), housing benefit, tax credits and disability benefits.
Use an online benefits calculator to check you're getting everything you should.
Local law centres can often help with reviews and tribunal appeals.
Questions about applying for universal credit?
Call a Help to Claim adviser at Citizens Advice on 0800 144 8 444 or use their online chat.
Get free advice from a helpline
Some helplines give general benefits advice. Others offer more specialist help.
Gingerbread Single Parent Helpline
0808 802 0925
For single parents
National Domestic Abuse Helpline
0808 2000 247
For people experiencing domestic abuse
Age UK advice line
0808 678 1602
For older people
Scope helpline
0808 800 3333
For disabled people and their families
Carers UK helpline
0808 808 7777
For people looking after a friend or family member
Macmillan Support Line
0808 808 0000
For people living with cancer and their loved ones
Find benefits advice online
These websites have useful guides and information:
Struggling with money?
Last updated: 15 August 2023
