Missing out on benefits? Check now.

If you’re living on your own, you should get a 25% discount on your council tax, regardless of how much you earn or have in the bank.

If you (and your partner if you have one) are on a low income, you could be eligible for a council tax reduction too.

Low-income households may also be able to claim the Warm Home Discount. It’s a one-off discount on heating bills over the winter, worth £150.

The benefits calculator also shows how you can apply for lower tariffs for other household utilities. It’s definitely worth checking if you qualify for lower tariffs on water or telecoms.

There are social water tariffs available that could save up to £370 a year. Social telecoms tariffs could reduce phone and broadband bills by as much as £300 a year.

If you’re struggling to pay your rent, you may also be able to get a discretionary housing payment from your local council.

The Scottish Welfare fund can help households in need.  Different grants are available depending on your circumstances.

• The Crisis Grant is for unexpected emergencies like a job loss, fire or flood. 
• The Community Care grant helps people establish a safe and settled home.

Find some wiggle room for saving. If you claim Universal Credit, you could take advantage of the Help-to-Save scheme – it gives you a 50p bonus for every £1 you save.

If you’re spending more than 35 hours a week looking after somebody with a disability, you may also be able to claim the Carer’s Allowance, worth £300 a month. 

• The Adult Disability Payment is a monthly payment if you have a mental health condition or disability. The average monthly payment for PIP is £510 and it may still be available even if you’re in work.
• If you have a child with a disability, the Child Disability Payment  provides a weekly payment based on the severity of your child’s condition. Families could receive an average of £426 a month.
• For older adults with disabilities, Attendance Allowance could help with care costs. This becomes available once you reach the state pension age. Average payments are £345 a month.

All of these disability benefits are not means-tested, which means it doesn’t matter how much you earn or have in savings.

You’re also likely to be able to claim a reduction to your council tax bill if you, or someone you live with, has a disability. This could be worth an average of £70 a month.

53% of households may also be able to claim Universal Credit. This pays an average of £847 a month to low-income households.

If you’re claiming Universal Credit, you can also use the Help-to-Save scheme. It pays a 50p bonus for every £1 you’re able to save.