Single parent's guide: Financial support
Average rating:
If your partner was the main earner it can be a real shock to suddenly have to pay all the bills on your own but you can get financial help.
- Child benefit: Even if you're divorced or separated this doesn't change - you'll still get your weekly child benefit allowance until your child is 16.
- Child Support Agency (CSA): They work on behalf of the parent who has custody of the children to enforce regular maintenance payments from your former partner. How much you can get depends on the individuals involved and many other factors.
- Income support: You can claim income support if you are not working or working less than 16 hours a week. You may also be entitled to other benefits to help with housing costs and council tax benefit.
- Council Tax: If you're the only adult in the house you can get a 25% discount on your council tax.
- Tax credits: If you have a child then it's more than likely that you can claim for Child Tax Credits. If you already get Child Tax Credits then you must tell the Inland Revenue that your circumstances have changed because this could change what you're entitled to.
- Do a finances overhaul: Take a good look at what you've got coming in and going out. Think about your debts, if you have any, and whether you need to arrange new repayment terms.
By Louise O'Connell
Average rating:
