If your family receives Universal Credit, there may be additional support available that could reduce your household costs or increase your monthly income.
Many parents assume that once Universal Credit is awarded, all the support they qualify for will automatically be included.
Unfortunately, that is not always the case.
There are several benefits, reductions, and support schemes linked to Universal Credit that families often do not realise they need to apply for separately.
Taking a little time to check these today could make a real difference to your finances.
1. Disabled Child Element
If your child receives Disability Living Allowance (DLA), your Universal Credit may increase through something called the Disabled Child Element.
This additional payment recognises the extra costs that come with caring for a child with disabilities or additional needs.
There are two possible levels:
- Disabled Child Element – paid when a child receives DLA
- Severely Disabled Child Element – paid when a child receives the highest care component of DLA
Some families do not realise they must inform Universal Credit when their child receives DLA, otherwise the additional support may not be applied.
If your child has recently been awarded DLA, it is worth checking your Universal Credit statement to ensure this element has been added.
2. Free School Meals
Many families receiving Universal Credit are eligible for Free School Meals.
This not only helps with daily food costs but can also unlock additional support within schools, such as:
- help with school uniforms
- subsidised school trips
- access to activities funded through the school’s pupil premium funding
Eligibility rules depend on household income levels, so it is worth checking with your child’s school or your local council.
3. Council Tax Reduction
Council Tax Reduction is separate from Universal Credit and must usually be applied for through your local authority.
If your household income is low or you are receiving benefits, your council tax bill could be significantly reduced.
Some households may also qualify for a Disabled Band Reduction if someone in the household has a disability and the home has been adapted or used differently to meet their needs.
Because each council runs its own scheme, the level of support can vary.
Contacting your local council or checking their website can help you find out what you may be entitled to.
4. Social Tariffs for Household Bills
Several essential services offer social tariffs for households receiving Universal Credit.
These can include reduced-cost plans for:
- broadband and internet services
- water bills
- energy tariffs in some cases
Broadband social tariffs, for example, can start from around £10–£20 per month, significantly cheaper than many standard contracts.
Many families remain on expensive plans simply because they do not realise these options exist.
Contacting your provider and asking about social tariffs for benefit recipients is often the quickest way to find out.
5. Discretionary Housing Payments
If the housing support element of Universal Credit does not fully cover your rent, you may be able to apply for a Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP).
These payments are provided by local councils to help households experiencing financial hardship with housing costs.
DHPs can be particularly helpful if:
- your rent is higher than the housing element provided
- you are temporarily struggling with rent payments
- your circumstances have recently changed
Applications are usually made through your local authority’s housing department.
Why It’s Important to Check
Many families assume that if they qualify for support, it will automatically appear in their Universal Credit payments.
But in reality, many of these schemes require separate applications or notifications.
By reviewing what you are eligible for now, you may be able to reduce your household costs or increase your financial support.
For families already managing the pressures of work, caring responsibilities, or supporting children with additional needs, even small savings can make a meaningful difference.
Final Thought
Universal Credit is designed to provide a safety net for families who need support.
But the system can be complex, and many households miss out on help simply because they are not aware it exists.
Taking the time to check what additional support you may qualify for could ease some of the financial pressure many families are currently facing.
If you are navigating benefits, SEND support, or education systems, AskEllie provides guidance to help families understand their rights and options.
You are always welcome to come by and see us.
Leave a Reply