Benefits

It can be difficult to understand what benefits you’re entitled to, how to claim them, and what to do if your benefits are stopped. We’re here to offer support and guidance to everyone who needs more information about benefits.

Whatever benefit your looking for advice on we’re here to give you a clear answer.

Understanding benefits

There are a wide range of people who may be entitled to benefits. Here are some of the groups of people who could be eligible for extra support:

• People in employment or unemployed people
• Those experiencing illness or disabled people
• Carers
• Young people
• Older people
• Parents
• Armed forces and veterans
• People on a low income

There are several different types of benefits and other forms of support you could receive. You might also be entitled to Universal Credit, tax credits or help with your council tax, housing costs and national insurance, or other kinds of financial support. We can also give you information about how to claim benefits, how you’ll receive your benefit payments, and what to do if you have any problems getting them.

If you are claiming Universal Credit for the first time, we can help in person, by phone or via webchat.

Whatever you need to know about benefits, we’re here to offer you free, impartial and confidential advice. Get in touch with Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau today.

Prepare for your appointment - Benefit  check 

If you would like an adviser to check that you are receiving all the benefits and tax credits you're entitled to, bring the following information for everyone who lives in your home:

• dates of birth
• if employed or self-employed - number of hours worked
• gross income from employment for the last tax year - April 6 to April 5  - a P60 form will provide this, or if self employed, last year’s accounts
• gross income for this year - payslips or estimate if self-employed
• if you are currently receiving benefits, bring all the benefit award letters
• child care costs - details of childcare provider and how much you pay
• investment income - details of investments and latest interest payments (bank statements may be the best way to show this)
• tenancy agreement or current mortgage repayment details
• council tax bill

Prepare for your appointment - Benefit challenge 

If you would like an adviser to help you challenge a benefit decision then please bring with you any relevant letters that you have received. If your query is regarding Universal Credit please remember to bring your login details.