For many families receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA), or Universal Credit, the rising cost of living can make everyday expenses increasingly difficult to manage.
What many people don’t realise is that being on certain benefits can unlock additional discounts, support schemes, and reduced tariffs that can significantly lower monthly costs.
The key issue is that most of these savings are not applied automatically. You often have to ask for them or apply directly.
Taking a little time now to check what you are eligible for could save your household hundreds of pounds a year.
Here are six important areas worth looking into.
1. Broadband Social Tariffs
Many broadband providers offer social tariffs for people receiving certain benefits, including Universal Credit.
These plans often cost between £10 and £20 per month, which is significantly cheaper than many standard broadband packages.
The speed and service are often similar to regular plans, but the price is reduced to make internet access more affordable.
To access this, contact your current broadband provider and ask if they offer a social tariff. If they do, ask to be moved onto it.
Many households qualify but remain on more expensive contracts simply because they were never told about the option.
2. Council Tax Reductions
If someone in your household receives PIP or DLA, you may be eligible for a Council Tax Reduction.
There are a few different schemes that could apply depending on your circumstances, including:
- Council Tax Reduction (CTR) for low-income households
- Disabled Band Reduction Scheme
- Local council support programmes
Because these schemes are administered by local authorities, the rules can vary slightly between councils.
It is worth contacting your local council and asking what reductions you may qualify for based on your household situation.
3. Company Shop Membership
If you receive certain benefits, you may qualify for Company Shop membership.
Company Shop is a members-only supermarket that sells surplus food and household products from major retailers at significantly reduced prices.
Many families report savings of 30–70% compared with normal supermarket prices.
If there is a Company Shop store near you, it can be worth applying early in case membership becomes limited or waiting lists grow.
4. Energy Company Support and Social Tariffs
Energy companies in the UK often run hardship funds, social tariffs, and payment support schemes for households on low income or benefits.
These may include:
- reduced tariffs
- hardship grants to help clear energy debt
- flexible payment plans
- access to the Priority Services Register
The Priority Services Register can be particularly helpful for vulnerable households, offering additional support during power cuts or emergencies.
Contact your energy supplier directly and ask what support schemes are available for customers receiving benefits.
5. Water Bill Reductions
Most UK water companies operate social tariff schemes for households on lower incomes.
These schemes can significantly reduce water bills, sometimes by capping the amount you pay each year.
Some companies also offer additional support if someone in the household has a medical condition or disability that increases water use.
Contact your water provider and ask about their low-income or social tariff schemes.
6. Housing Support and Discretionary Housing Payments
If your housing benefit or Universal Credit housing element does not fully cover your rent, you may be able to apply for Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP).
These payments are administered by local councils and are designed to help households struggling with housing costs.
DHPs are often used to support families facing:
- shortfalls in rent
- temporary financial hardship
- housing cost pressures due to disability or caring responsibilities
Applications are usually made through your local authority.
Why It’s Important to Check These Now
Many families assume that if they qualify for additional support, it will be automatically applied.
Unfortunately, this is rarely the case.
Most discounts, tariffs, and support schemes require a phone call or a short application process.
By checking what you are eligible for now, you can potentially reduce household costs and create a little more financial breathing room.
A Final Thought
Managing finances while caring for a child with additional needs or navigating disability can be incredibly demanding.
Every opportunity to reduce unnecessary costs can help ease some of that pressure.
Taking a few practical steps today may not solve every challenge, but it could make a meaningful difference to your household budget over the coming months.
If you are navigating SEND issues, education support, or benefits systems, AskEllie provides guidance to help families understand their options and rights.
You are always welcome to come by and see us.
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