7 benefits you're probably missing (even if you're working)

An estimated £15 billion in UK benefits goes unclaimed every year. Many people in work assume they don't qualify — but the thresholds are higher than you might think.

1. Council Tax Reduction

If your income is below a certain level, you can get up to **100% off** your council tax. Each council sets their own scheme. There's no harm in applying — the worst they can say is no.

**Potential saving: £800–£2,000/year**

2. Warm Home Discount

A **£150 one-off payment** toward your electricity bill. If you receive Pension Credit, you may get it automatically. Otherwise, you may need to apply through your energy supplier.

**Potential saving: £150/year**

3. Free School Meals

If your household income is below certain thresholds and you receive qualifying benefits, your children can get free school meals. This saves around **£500 per child per year**.

**Potential saving: £500+/year per child**

4. Healthy Start Vouchers

If you're pregnant or have children under 4, you may qualify for **£4.25 per week** in vouchers for milk, fruit, vegetables, and vitamins.

**Potential saving: £221/year per child**

5. Universal Credit (even with a job)

Many working people are eligible for Universal Credit if their income is below a certain level. It's not just for unemployed people — it tops up low wages.

**Potential payment: £100–£500+/month**

6. Cold Weather Payments

If you receive certain benefits and the temperature drops below zero for 7 consecutive days, you get **£25 for each cold week**. This is automatic — you don't need to apply.

**Potential saving: £25–£100/winter**

7. Budgeting Loans

If you've been on certain benefits for more than 6 months, you can get an **interest-free loan** of up to £812 for essential items like furniture or clothing.

**Potential loan: Up to £812 at 0% interest**

Check your eligibility using our Benefits Finder — it takes less than 2 minutes.