Housing news

The MoneySavingExpert issued a warning to people with personal and workplace pensions

Money saving expert Martin Lewis has issued an urgent call for anyone holding a private or workplace pension to check their records. He cautioned that out-of-date information could lead to savings being unintentionally passed on to ex-partners.

Following his BAFTA triumph, Lewis published his latest MSE newsletter detailing 13 strategies to maximise and protect private and workplace pensions. Amongst his crucial recommendations, drawn from years of reader correspondence, was a striking caution: “Don’t accidentally leave your private or workplace pension to your ex!”

Lewis emphasised that many people fail to update their “expression of wishes” upon enrolling in particular pension schemes. Should you die with funds still remaining in these pensions, your provider will generally consult this document to establish who should receive the money.

Neglecting to maintain this information up to date could result in your hard-earned savings going to former partners you separated from years ago or have completely lost contact with.

Lewis clarified: “You can’t usually leave pension savings in your will. If you die without taking it, or there’s still money in your pension, the provider/trustees decide what to do with it.” He added: “Instead, when you sign up to a Money Purchase type scheme or similar you usually fill out an expression of wishes (aka a nomination form), which tells the trustees your preferences. They usually follow this but don’t have too.”

Martin voiced his exasperation over the countless messages he has received over the years from people who were left out when a family member died because they had neglected to update their expression of wishes. He drew attention to one post on X: “@MartinSLewis It’s just happened to us! My mother-in-law died… only for her pension firm to want her ex’s details… they split 20 years ago! She’d be spitting feathers if she knew!”

The MSE website provides a thorough guide on filling in and updating Expression of Wishes forms. These forms are generally available for Money Purchase pensions, also known as defined-contribution pensions, and salary schemes or defined-benefit pensions.

It is indeed possible to nominate someone under 18 to receive your pension in the event of your death. However, the provider will only be able to distribute the funds to them if a trust or suitable arrangement is in place.

Certain forms may also include a section where you can outline your wishes should none of your nominated beneficiaries be traceable or eligible to receive the funds. The MSE website advises: “But the most important point is to keep your wording as simple and to the point as possible. Avoid trying to cover a multitude of eventualities. Though it might be tempting to include highly specific scenarios, this can lead to an increased risk of misinterpretation.”

The MoneySavingExpert issued a warning to people with personal and workplace pensions

Money saving expert Martin Lewis has issued an urgent call for anyone holding a private or workplace pension to check their records. He cautioned that out-of-date information could lead to savings being unintentionally passed on to ex-partners.

Following his BAFTA triumph, Lewis published his latest MSE newsletter detailing 13 strategies to maximise and protect private and workplace pensions. Amongst his crucial recommendations, drawn from years of reader correspondence, was a striking caution: “Don’t accidentally leave your private or workplace pension to your ex!”

Lewis emphasised that many people fail to update their “expression of wishes” upon enrolling in particular pension schemes. Should you die with funds still remaining in these pensions, your provider will generally consult this document to establish who should receive the money.

Neglecting to maintain this information up to date could result in your hard-earned savings going to former partners you separated from years ago or have completely lost contact with.

Lewis clarified: “You can’t usually leave pension savings in your will. If you die without taking it, or there’s still money in your pension, the provider/trustees decide what to do with it.” He added: “Instead, when you sign up to a Money Purchase type scheme or similar you usually fill out an expression of wishes (aka a nomination form), which tells the trustees your preferences. They usually follow this but don’t have too.”

Martin voiced his exasperation over the countless messages he has received over the years from people who were left out when a family member died because they had neglected to update their expression of wishes. He drew attention to one post on X: “@MartinSLewis It’s just happened to us! My mother-in-law died… only for her pension firm to want her ex’s details… they split 20 years ago! She’d be spitting feathers if she knew!”

The MSE website provides a thorough guide on filling in and updating Expression of Wishes forms. These forms are generally available for Money Purchase pensions, also known as defined-contribution pensions, and salary schemes or defined-benefit pensions.

It is indeed possible to nominate someone under 18 to receive your pension in the event of your death. However, the provider will only be able to distribute the funds to them if a trust or suitable arrangement is in place.

Certain forms may also include a section where you can outline your wishes should none of your nominated beneficiaries be traceable or eligible to receive the funds. The MSE website advises: “But the most important point is to keep your wording as simple and to the point as possible. Avoid trying to cover a multitude of eventualities. Though it might be tempting to include highly specific scenarios, this can lead to an increased risk of misinterpretation.”

Child Benefit payments will stop automatically after a child’s 16th birthday unless parents confirm their teenager’s educational plans here’s what you need to do

Parents are being warned they could lose out on vital funds if they neglect to complete one crucial task. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is calling on parents of 16 to 19-year-olds to renew their Child Benefit claim if their teenager plans to continue with certain types of education or training after completing their GCSEs or National 5s.

HMRC has warned that Child Benefit payments will cease automatically on August 31 on or after a child’s 16th birthday unless parents confirm their teenager’s future plans.

According to the Daily Record, approximately 1.5 million reminder letters are being sent out to parents and guardians between now and early May.

Yet parents needn’t wait for their letter to arrive. HMRC’s digital renewal service went live on April 1, enabling those who already know their teenager’s plans to take action straight away to avoid any interruption to monthly payments of £108.20.

Claim renewals can be made through the HMRC app or online at GOV.UK. The letters also include a QR code giving direct access to the digital service.

Child Benefit is valued at £27.05 weekly and paid every four weeks, delivering some £2,406.60 throughout the 2026/27 financial year for the eldest or only child.

HMRC pays £17.90 weekly for each additional child. Last year, 874,000 parents extended their claim, with over half doing so online or through the HMRC app.

Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, said: “Child Benefit is a real financial boost for families, so if your teenager already knows they’re staying in education or training after their GCSEs or National 5s, you don’t need to wait for our letter.

“You can extend your Child Benefit claim today in minutes via the HMRC app or online at GOV.UK.”

Child Benefit can continue to be paid for children who are studying full time in approved non-advanced education, which includes:

• A levels or Scottish Highers
• International Baccalaureate
• home education – if it started before their child turned 16, or after 16 if they have a statement of special educational needs and it was assessed by the local authority
• T levels
• NVQs, up to level 3

Child Benefit will also continue for children studying on one of these unpaid approved training courses:

• Scotland: Employability Fund programme and No One Left Behind
• Wales: Foundation Apprenticeships, Traineeships or the Jobs Growth Wales+ scheme
• Northern Ireland: PEACEPLUS Youth Programme 3.2, Training for Success or Skills for Life and Work

If a child changes their mind about further education or training, parents can simply inform HMRC online or in the app and payments will be adjusted accordingly.

If a Child Benefit claimant or their partner has an individual income of between £60,000 and £80,000, the higher earner may be liable for the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC).

Use the Child Benefit tax calculator on GOV.UK for an estimate. Parents can pay the charge through their PAYE tax code using the HICBC digital service, or through Self Assessment.

Industry insiders say you could get emails and texts about cancelled flights and additional charges

Industry experts urge travellers to be careful when booking their holiday abroad this year, warning that travel scams are becoming more sophisticated and more convincing. As people are continuing to plan trips abroad in 2026, millions of travellers are searching for flights, accommodation and package deals.

But holiday booking fraud continues to cost UK travellers millions annually, with over £11million lost in 2024 alone by travellers who believed they were paying for genuine accommodation or flights.

Travel expert Jane Bolton, from Erna Low, has explained the eight red flags catching travellers out, and the straightforward steps that can dramatically reduce risk.

“Too good to be true” deals on social media

“Luxury villas for a fraction of the normal price or return flights that seem unbelievably cheap are often the first red flag. Scammers know people are looking for bargains, so they create eye-catching posts designed to rush travellers into quick decisions.

“If a deal looks dramatically cheaper than similar options, take a step back. Always book through reputable travel companies or trusted booking platforms with secure payment systems, and never send money by bank transfer to ‘hold’ a deal.”

Fake flight cancellation emails or texts

“Some travellers receive convincing emails or text messages claiming their flight has been cancelled or that extra fees are due. These messages often use real logos and urgent language making you think you need to act straight immediately.

“Never click links in unexpected messages. Instead, log into your booking account directly through the official website to check for updates. Airlines and reputable travel companies won’t ask for sensitive details through random links.”

Clone airline or travel websites

“Fraudsters are now creating websites that look almost identical to well-known airlines or travel brands. The branding can be convincing, and the difference in the web address might only be one letter.

“To stay safe, type the official website address directly into your browser rather than clicking ads or links. Double check the web address carefully, and use established booking channels that clearly display secure payment options and company details.”

Requests to move payment outside the platform

“One of the biggest warning signs is being asked to complete payment outside of a secure booking system. Scammers often claim there’s a technical issue and ask for a direct transfer instead.

“Keep all communication and payments within the official booking platform wherever possible. This helps ensure you benefit from booking protection, transaction records and customer support if anything goes wrong. Genuine travel providers won’t ask you to bypass secure systems or move conversations onto private messaging apps.”

Booking or paying over public Wi-Fi

“Unsecured public Wi-Fi networks in airports, cafés or hotels can make it easier for criminals to intercept personal or payment information.

“Avoid entering financial details on open networks. Use mobile data or a secure connection when making bookings, and turn off automatic Wi-Fi connections on your device. Using a trusted VPN can add an extra layer of security when you must access Wi-Fi in public places.”

Fake travel insurance providers

“Scammers don’t just target flights and accommodation. They also target travellers with extremely cheap insurance policies that look legitimate but provide no real cover. Many people only realise when they try to make a claim.

“Always check that an insurer is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority before buying. If the price is significantly lower than everywhere else, it’s worth double checking.”

Scam customer service numbers

“Some scammers set up fake helplines that appear in online search results. Travellers think they’re speaking to a legitimate representative, but they’re actually handing over personal details.

“Only use contact details listed on official websites. If you’re unsure, verify the number independently before calling.”

Pressure tactics and countdown timers

“Scammers rely on urgency. You might see countdown clocks or messages saying ‘only one room left at this price’ to push you into paying quickly.

“No genuine provider should pressure you into making an instant payment without time to review the details. If you feel rushed, pause and research before committing.”

In short, criminals are becoming more polished and professional in how they present themselves. The safest approach is to book through trusted, reputable travel companies or secure booking platforms, take your time before paying, and never move transactions outside of official systems. A few extra minutes of checking can protect your holiday and your money.

Universal Credit claimants and people in receipt of other benefits have been warned they could face a £50 fine

The Department for Work and Pensions has outlined 20 changes that must be reported – or claimants risk having their benefit payments suspended. Those receiving Universal Credit, alongside recipients of other benefits, have been cautioned they could face a £50 penalty.

Since October 2012, the DWP has held the authority to impose fines on benefit claimants who have been overpaid as a result of failing to notify officials of changes in their circumstances, reports Birmingham Live.

The ‘civil penalty’ stands at £50 and will be added on top of the overpayment amount.

Turn2Us explains: “If you agree that you have been overpaid but you don’t think you should have been given a civil penalty you can challenge the decision to give you a civil penalty.

“You will first have to request Mandatory Reconsideration of the decision.

“You have one month to request Mandatory Reconsideration.

“You should explain why you think you should not have been given a civil penalty.”

The charity continues: “If the DWP do not change their decision, you can appeal to an Independent Tribunal.

“You only have one month from the date of the DWP’s decision on your request for Mandatory Reconsideration to request an appeal.”

Changes you need to report

• Changing your name or gender
• Finding or finishing a job, or working different hours
• Your income going up or down
• Starting or stopping education, training or an apprenticeship
• Moving house
• People moving into or out of the place you live (for example your partner, a child or lodger)
• The death of your partner or someone you live with
• Having a baby
• Starting or stopping caring for someone
• Getting married or divorced
• Starting or ending a civil partnership
• Planning to go abroad for any length of time
• Going into hospital, a care home or sheltered accommodation
• Any changes to your medical condition or disability
• Changing your doctor
• Changes to your pension, savings, investments or property
• Changes to other money you get (for example student loans or grants, sick pay or money you get from a charity)
• Changes to the benefits you or anyone else in your house gets
• You or your partner getting back-pay (sometimes called ‘arrears’) for salary or earnings you’re owed
• Changes to your immigration status, if you’re not a British citizen

Fore more information about how to report a change in circumstance and when, visit the gov.uk website.

Martin Lewis says May is the ‘perfect time’ for direct debit energy customers to check their accounts, as energy firms are holding over £3 billion in customer credit

Personal finance expert Martin Lewis has issued an important message to all customers of UK energy suppliers, including Octopus Energy, OVO Energy, British Gas, EDF Energy, and ScottishPower. The ITV and BBC expert stated that anyone who pays by direct debit should carry out a check, as it is the ‘perfect time’ to do so.

It is estimated that in 2026 so far approximately 16m households have accumulated credit in their energy accounts (57% of households), which typically suggests they are paying by direct debit.

Mr Lewis explained that this period of the year was the most opportune moment to check whether there are funds available to withdraw, but if you do it at the wrong time it could result in having to increase payments to cover periods of higher energy usage. For money-saving tips, sign up to our Money newsletter here

However, May was the ideal month to act, he said: “If you pay your energy bills by monthly direct debit, this is the perfect time to check whether you are in too much credit. Energy firms are sitting on over £3 billion of our cash and you can get it back.

“So why right now? Well, at the beginning of May, we are at the bottom of the curve in the energy direct debit cycle. That means this is the point of the year when you should have the minimum amount of credit. So go and have a look what credit you’re in.”

There is one task homeowners must tackle first: “Make sure you’ve done an up-to-date meter reading or you’ve got a smart meter doing that for you and that’s been factored in. Then, assuming your direct debit is about right, what I would suggest if you have any more than a month and a half’s worth of direct debits, that’s too much.”

He added: “So, suppose your direct debit is £200 a month. If you’ve got £600, a month and a half worth is £300 quid. So I would be getting in touch with them saying, ‘Why am I so much in credit? Please can you give me back the £300 of my money that you’re sitting on?'”

Mr Lewis recently urged customers on ‘price cap’ tariffs to consider switching to a fixed deal. The energy price cap, reviewed by Ofgem every three months (January, April, July, October), places a ceiling on the maximum unit rates and standing charges suppliers are permitted to apply to default, standard variable tariffs across England, Scotland, and Wales.

It does not place an absolute limit on bills — the greater your usage, the higher your costs. The cap applies solely to households on default tariffs.

Mr Lewis, speaking on the ITV programme This Morning, explained that if people were unsure whether they were on the price cap or not, it almost certainly meant they hadn’t fixed their energy deal — and urgent action was needed.

He said: “I was shocked that so few people knew they were on the price cap because we use this term all of the time. And I often say, if you’re on the price cap, get off the pants price cap. It’s a pants cap. But I actually don’t think people know.

“So, let’s be very plain. The price cap applies to firms’ standard variable tariff. That’s the default tariff. That’s the ‘you’ve not chosen a tariff’ tariff. That’s the, ‘I’ve not done anything when my fix ended’ tariff. It’s the do nothing tariff. That’s the price cap. If you’ve chosen to fix, if you’ve chosen a specialist tariff and you’re still within that, you’re not on the price cap. So, we are talking all those of you.”

Martin outlined that prices dropped 6.7% on April 1. He said: “What it does is it caps the unit rate and standing charge that energy firms can charge. Now, here’s the thing you need to understand. The price cap is set based on a time lag. So, the April price cap was based on wholesale rates. That’s the worldwide rates if you like between middle of November and the middle of February.

“The July price cap is based from the middle of February till the middle of May. It contains all of the Middle East conflict. So that means the current prediction is we’re likely to see a rise on the 1st of July of between 12 and 14% in the energy price cap.”

Mr Lewis explained that the cap remained in force for just three months, with the following update due in October. He added, however, that current forecasts suggested the October price cap would remain broadly similar ‘as once it’s gone up 12% it’s going to stay around there but we don’t know. That’s crystal ball gazing.’

He continued: “So that’s the position that we are currently in. But the rate that you can get switchable tariffs on the market like cheap fixes, that isn’t based on a time lag. That’s based on current prices right here, right now. So sometimes the time lag is good for you. Sometimes the time lag’s bad. Now, since we had the ceasefire, worldwide natural gas prices that also dictate our electricity prices have dropped.

“They’re not cheap, but they’ve dropped. So two weeks ago, you could not get a fix that was cheaper than the current price cap. It was about 7% more expensive. Right now, the cheapest fix is 6% less than the current price cap. And with a fix, you lock in your rate. So, you can get a fix now at 6% less than the April price cap.”

The DWP is urging people to get in contact

The Timms Review is currently under way – and the deadline is nearing. Some Brits are being urged to submit their “evidence”, but they have just a matter of days remaining before the deadline closes.

Sir Stephen Timms, who is co-chairing the review, wrote on X: “We want to hear from people who know this system firsthand: disabled people, carers, people working with organisations that represent or support disabled people, if you’ve claimed PIP, supported someone else to, or worked closely with PIP, we’d really like your insight.”

Sharon Brennan, one of the other co-chairs, added: “So please respond to the call for evidence by the 28th of May and share it with others. So that as many people’s views and experiences as possible can help shape the future.”

The review was launched after Sir Keir Starmer was forced to scrap proposed cuts to PIP (Personal Independence Payments) after a backbench revolt. Spending on PIP is set to go up from £26bn in 2024-25 to £45bn by 2031, government data shows – but the review is not focused on finding savings, officials say.

Sir Stephen stressed that the views of disabled people and carers on the PIP system are particularly sought after. He said: “We want to put lived experience at the heart of the review”.

However, others including doctors, researchers and elected officials are also welcome to contribute their perspectives as part of the process. Sir Stephen added: “We want to hear from anyone who has something to say about PIP.”

Details can be found on the Gov.uk website. Submissions can take various forms, such as written responses, existing data, or unpublished analysis and reports. Those wishing to respond to the call for evidence can do so online, via email or by post. Once the call for evidence closes, the steering group working alongside the co-chairs will assess all submissions, with a summary set to be published by the DWP to inform the next stage of the review.

The review is due to be presented in autumn 2026. The Timms Review is the first of its kind to examine disability benefits since it was launched, and is intended to ensure that PIP is “fair and fit for the future”, officials say.

It also aims to put forward recommendations on how the system can better support disabled people in achieving higher living standards and greater independence as they navigate the ever-increasing costs of modern life. PIP assists those living with long-term disabilities and health conditions by helping to cover the additional costs of living and reduced earning capacity that such conditions frequently bring.

It is not means-tested, encouraging people to consider employment without the fear that doing so will automatically disqualify them from receiving their benefits, officials say.

A reminder has been issued to Tesco Clubcard users about vouchers that could be due to expire

Tesco customers are being urged to check their accounts as their vouchers could be about to expire. Experts have warned that Clubcard vouchers worth £17 million are set to lapse at the end of May.

The Tesco Clubcard is a free rewards scheme that allows shoppers to build up points as they spend. Members also benefit from exclusive deals and can exchange their points for vouchers to use against groceries, fuel, or with partner retailers.

Figures show that in early 2026, more than 24 million UK households hold a Tesco Clubcard — accounting for over 80% of all homes. However, to make the most of your Clubcard vouchers, it’s vital to keep track of when they are due to expire.

The team at Money Saving Expert (MSE), the website founded by Martin Lewis, has flagged that a key expiry deadline for these vouchers could be fast approaching.

MSE said: “If you’ve got a Tesco Clubcard, check if you have any vouchers that expire soon, as £17 million-worth are due to run out at 11.59pm on Sunday 31 May.” That said, there may be a way to extend their lifespan if you’re not ready to use them just yet.

MSE added: “Don’t want to spend your vouchers yet? We’ve got a trick to extend their validity.” As a first step, you should review your vouchers and check whether any appear to be missing.

MSE said: “Tesco Clubcard vouchers are only valid for two years from the date they were issued (unless you’re able to extend them). If you’re unsure when yours expire and you’ve still got them in paper format, check the date on the voucher itself.”

However, if you’ve misplaced your paper vouchers, or aren’t certain whether you had any to begin with, you can verify this on the Tesco Clubcard website or app. To check online, head to the Tesco Clubcard website, select Clubcard account and then ‘Vouchers.’

MSE continued: “You’ll need to be registered for a Tesco.com account and must know your Clubcard number, which is printed on Clubcards (including those downloaded to digital wallets) and Clubcard key fobs. You should then be able to see a table listing your available vouchers and their expiry dates.

“To check on the Tesco app, open it up, go to ‘Clubcard’ and then to the ‘Vouchers’ section. (If you don’t have the app, you can download it for free through the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.)”

Extend your vouchers

MSE claimed that if your Clubcard vouchers are due to expire and you don’t want to use them yet, you might be able to extend the expiry date by another two years.

“Technically, under the Clubcard T&Cs, Tesco can refuse a Reward Partner order if it decides you’re trying to game the system by redeeming vouchers just to extend their validity – but we tested the trick at MoneySavingExpert.com Towers this week and it worked just fine,” MSE said.

“If you want to give this a try, here’s how it works – though remember you’ll need to extend your vouchers by 11.59pm on Sunday 31 May.”

Here’s what you need to do:

• Make a small purchase on the Tesco Clubcard Rewards page (not in store or on other Tesco pages) or donate to one of its partner charities
• The remaining balance will then be credited back to your Clubcard account, e.g if you spend 50p using a £5 Clubcard voucher, you should get £4.50 back
• You can then swap your points for vouchers manually or wait for them to be converted with your next statement
• The expiry date for these new vouchers will be two years in the future

MSE said: “You’ll need to do this for each individual voucher, so it’s worth weighing up if it’s actually worth it for smaller denominations. For example, if you’ve a £10 voucher it could be worth it. If you’ve got a handful of £1 vouchers, maybe less so.”

For more information and advice on how to double or triple the worth of your vouchers, see the MSE website here.

The tax authority said hundreds of thousands of people had already got on with it

Hundreds of thousands of taxpayers got ahead of the game by filing their Self Assessment return early last month, with 86,270 submitting on day one – as Easter Monday emerged as the most popular date. More than 298,900 people filed between April 6 and 12 – the first week of the tax year – according to HMRC figures published on Tuesday.

HMRC said April as a whole set a new record with almost 740,000 submitting their returns for the 2025 to 2026 tax year. Anyone unsure whether they need to complete a tax return can use the checker tool on GOV.UK to find out, it added. People new to Self Assessment must first register to receive their Unique Taxpayer Reference, which they will need when they complete and file their return.

Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s chief customer officer, said: “For thousands of people, filing early and staying on top of their finances has become the norm. It takes the pressure off in January and means they can spend their time focusing on their business and doing things they love. Make a start on your tax return today by searching ‘Self Assessment’ on GOV.UK.”

More than 12 million taxpayers are expected to submit a 2025 to 2026 tax return by January 31, 2027, HMRC said. However, people do not need to wait, as HMRC encourages millions to get started and file early. It said this meant they know what tax they owed sooner, so they could plan for any payments in advance and avoid the stress of leaving it until January.

HMRC has updated guidance on filing tax returns early and help around paying tax bills on GOV.UK. Taxpayers can set up a budget payment plan to make either weekly or monthly direct debit payments towards their Self Assessment tax bill, spreading the cost of their tax bill across the year, instead of having to pay that bill all at once by the January 31 payment deadline.

In cases where tax has been overpaid, refunds can be claimed as soon as the return has been processed, HMRC said. People will be able to check if they are due a refund in the HMRC app. It also means people can take their time to complete their return, ensuring all the information submitted is accurate. This will result in fewer mistakes and potential penalties, HMRC said.

Also, from April 6, 2026, sole traders and landlords with a turnover above £50,000 are required to use Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax and submit quarterly summaries of their income and expenses to HMRC.

From April 2027, this will also apply to sole traders and landlords with a combined turnover of more than £30,000. Agents can also register their clients via GOV.UK.

Those within scope of MTD will continue to submit an annual Self Assessment tax return and HMRC said it was encouraging customers to get ahead and file their tax return for the 2025 to 2026 tax year now.

Criminals often impersonate HMRC to steal money or personal information in someone else’s name. It said people should always take time to stop and think if the request is genuine before sharing personal information, never click on links in unexpected messages or share their HMRC sign-in details.

Genuine HMRC contact details and advice on spotting scams can be found on GOV.UK by searching for ‘HMRC phishing and scams’.

A wide range of online help and support is available on GOV.UK to help people fill in and file their tax return.

People on Universal Credit may be able to access extra support

More than 8.4 million people throughout Great Britain are currently receiving Universal Credit, with numerous households still battling to cover rent, food and energy bills despite benefit rises last month.

Those experiencing financial hardship may be eligible for additional assistance through programmes provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), local authority grants and emergency funds that many claimants are unaware even exist.

Certain types of assistance require repayment via future Universal Credit instalments, while others do not. Listed below are some of the principal hardship programmes and financial support opportunities available to those on Universal Credit.

Budgeting Advances

Those claiming Universal Credit may be eligible to request a Budgeting Advance to assist with covering emergency or unforeseen expenses, reports the Daily Record.

This can include help paying for:

• furniture or household items
• work-related expenses
• rent in advance
• emergency travel costs
• replacing essential appliances

The sum available is determined by individual circumstances, including whether someone is single or has children.

What you can get

What you get will depend on how much you need. The smallest amount you can borrow is £100.

You can get up to:

• £348 if you’re single
• £464 if you’re part of a couple
• £812 if you have children

Budgeting Advances carry no interest but must be repaid via future Universal Credit instalments.

To be eligible, claimants typically need to have been in receipt of Universal Credit for a minimum of six months, though certain exceptions exist. Complete information on Budgeting Advances is available on GOV.UK.

Hardship Payments

Individuals whose Universal Credit instalments have been cut due to a sanction may still be eligible to request a hardship payment. These payments exist to assist people in meeting essential living expenses when they’re unable to afford necessities such as food, heating or hygiene products.

Hardship payments aren’t issued automatically and typically must be applied for. According to DWP guidance, claimants generally need to demonstrate they or a member of their household would experience hardship without the payment. The funds usually require repayment. You can read the full guide to Universal Credit hardship payments on GOV.UK.

Discretionary Housing Payments

Those having difficulty paying rent may qualify for additional support via a Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP).

Local councils administer these payments and they can assist people who receive Housing Benefit or the housing component of Universal Credit.

DHPs may help people facing:

• rent shortfalls
• benefit cap pressures
• housing support reductions
• temporary financial difficulties

Eligibility criteria differ according to the council and personal circumstances. Comprehensive information is available on MYGOV.SCOT for Scottish claimants and GOV.UK for those residing in England.

Household Support Fund and local welfare assistance

Numerous councils across Scotland and England run local welfare programmes or emergency support funds.

Support available can include:

• supermarket vouchers
• fuel vouchers
• emergency cash payments
• help with white goods
• school clothing grants

In England, assistance is frequently delivered via the Household Support Fund.

Universal Credit new claim advances

Brits submitting a new Universal Credit claim may also be eligible to request an advance payment while awaiting their first full payment. Universal Credit is normally paid monthly in arrears, meaning many new claimants face a wait of around five weeks for their first scheduled payment.

Advance payments are designed to help people manage during that period.

However, the money must be repaid through future Universal Credit payments. Comprehensive information about Universal Credit advance payments is available on GOV.UK.

Citizens Advice urges people struggling financially to get help as soon as possible, as some hardship schemes and local support funds have limited budgets or time restrictions. A full guide to Universal Credit can be found on the Citizens Advice website here.