The government have set a cap on how much benefit a household can receive.

In October 2016 the government reduced the cap in benefits even further to:

• £384.62 a week for single parents
• £384.62 a week for couples (with or without children)
• £257.69 a week for single people without children

There are some exemptions to the Benefit Cap, for instance if you are in receipt of certain Disability Benefits or Working Tax Credits. For more information visit the Gov.uk website. 

If you’re not sure if you’ll be affected by the Benefit Cap,  use one of the free, confidential, online calculators 

If you are looking to apply for Working Tax Credits as a way of avoiding the Benefit Cap then you will need to work at least 16 hours a week as a single parent or 24 hours a week as a couple. Find out if you qualify for free childcare to help with finding work.

If you feel you or a member of your household may be eligible for Disability Benefits or Carers Allowance read our page on the Personal Independence Payment.

In certain circumstances you may be eligible for short term help via Discretionary Housing Payments. 

If you’re worried about the benefit cap download our leaflet and please contact us for advice.