Income Support
Who is eligible for Income Support?
Income Support is non-contributory but means-tested. This means
that it is not linked to National Insurance contributions. However,
if you have capital (including savings, shares and property other
than your own house) of over £8,000 you cannot usually claim Income
Support. For pensioners (all people over 60), the capital limit is
£12,000. It is not taxable. It is payable to people aged 18 years
and over, however some 16 and 17 year olds may qualify. Income
Support is claimed from the Benefits Agency and can entitle you to
other benefits.
How is it calculated?
The first £6,000 of savings are ignored. A tariff of £1 is added
to your weekly income for every £250 or part of it between £6,000
and £16,000. The calculation includes additions for mortgage
interest, ground rent and certain other charges. The calculation is
based upon the circumstances of the claimant and their family and
can include additions for adults and children.
Income Support is available to those not working (who do not
have to sign-on as available for work) or those who are working for
less than 16 hours per week, for example:
- single parents
- carers
- people unable to work due to ill health or disability
- people over 60 (pensioners)
Income Support is usually paid weekly or fortnightly in arrears.
A claim for Income Support will trigger involvement from the Child
Support Agency. For more information and to make a claim contact
Job Centre Plus.