Benefits and family guides

Marriage Allowance transfers part of one spouse or civil partner’s Personal Allowance. Eligibility depends on both partners’ tax positions, and a backdated claim depends on eligibility in each earlier year.

The charge can recover some or all Child Benefit when an individual’s adjusted net income exceeds the published threshold. It is based on individual income, with rules identifying which partner pays.

Tax-Free Childcare adds government money to an eligible childcare account. The contribution rule, cap for each child, approved-provider requirement and household eligibility conditions are separate.

Child Benefit has a higher weekly rate for the eldest or only child and a separate rate for each additional child. Household changes and the tax charge have separate rules.

Universal Credit has one standard allowance for a household. Age and couple status set the published base amount, while extra elements and reductions affect the payment.

Carer's Allowance has a weekly payment and a separate earnings limit. Caring time, the cared-for person's benefits and residence conditions also affect eligibility.

Attendance Allowance has two weekly rates linked to care or supervision needs. The payment helps with personal support and is separate from mobility needs.

Maternity Allowance is a benefit for people who cannot get Statutory Maternity Pay. The maximum weekly rate is the same as SMP, and self-employed applicants may receive a lower rate depending on their National Insurance record.

Bereavement Support Payment has higher and lower rates and a strict time limit for claiming. The one-off payment and monthly instalments usually cannot be paid if a claim is made more than 21 months after the death.

A Cold Weather Payment is triggered when the average temperature in an area reaches zero degrees celsius or below for 7 consecutive days. The payment is £25 per period, and the winter runs from November 2026 to March 2027.

Personal Independence Payment has daily living and mobility components. Each has a standard and enhanced weekly rate, with awards based on difficulties with tasks.

Winter Fuel Payment amounts depend on birth date and living circumstances. The income threshold determines whether HMRC recovers the payment rather than the initial amount.