More than six million UK residents currently rely on Universal Credit, a benefit overseen by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), tailored to assist people with low income or unemployment.
Monthly payouts vary based on personal circumstances, but many are unaware they may be eligible for additional benefits and free support programs that could total over £17,000 annually.
These benefits range from energy bill relief, childcare support, and food vouchers, to council tax reductions and free school meals. In August 2025, claimants can tap into these 18 cost-saving perks.
Key Financial Aid Available to Universal Credit Claimants
1. Household Support Fund – Up to £500
Managed by local councils, this fund offers up to £500 to help cover essentials like food, water, and energy bills. It’s available now and continues until March 31, 2026.
2. Warm Home Discount – Save £150
Claimants can receive a £150 reduction on electricity bills during winter (October to March). This discount appears directly on your energy bill and is not a cash payment.
Northern Ireland residents are excluded, but may access the Affordable Warmth Scheme if earning under £23,000/year.
3. Social Tariff Broadband & Mobile – Save £196.68/year
Low-income households can access budget broadband plans from £11/month. TalkTalk, for example, offers six months free via JobCentre referral. Discounts depend on provider and require proof of benefits.
4. Free School Meals – Save £503.50/child/year
All English children from reception to Year 2 qualify automatically. Older students may qualify if their family receives Universal Credit, Child Tax Credit, or JSA. Holiday support may also be available.
5. Council Tax Reduction—Worth Up to £2,280
Eligible claimants could see their council tax bill reduced by up to 100% depending on local authority policies. Apply via the Government’s council tax page. Single-person households can also receive a 25% discount.
6. Water Bill Discounts
Water companies offer social tariffs and WaterSure programs that can significantly lower bills. To qualify, you must have a water meter, high usage needs (e.g., 3+ kids or medical requirements), and live in England or Wales.
7. Energy Supplier Grants – Up to £1,500
Grants like the British Gas Energy Trust provide up to £1,500 to help pay off energy debts. Contact your energy supplier directly to check eligibility.
8. Free Prescriptions & Dental Care
If you’re on Universal Credit, you may qualify for free health services including prescriptions, dental treatments, and eye care, depending on income and circumstances.
9. Help to Save – Up to £300/Year
This government-backed savings scheme rewards eligible claimants with a 50p bonus per £1 saved, up to £50/month for 4 years. Savings are protected and paid directly into your account.
10. School Uniform Grant – Up to £200
Families receiving Universal Credit may apply for non-repayable grants of up to £200 to cover school uniform costs. Application processes vary across the UK.
11. Travel Discounts – Save Up to 50%
With a Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount Card, claimants can save 50% on rail travel and access bus and tram discounts, especially around London. Eligibility depends on age and length of claim.
12. Flexible Support Fund (FSF)
This uncapped fund supports costs like transport, interview clothing, or training, distributed at the discretion of local Jobcentre advisers.
13. Sure Start Maternity Grant – £500
Expecting parents may claim £500 tax-free if they’re on benefits and having their first child, or multiples. Must be claimed within 11 weeks before or six months after birth.
14. Healthy Start Vouchers – Up to £442/Year
Pregnant women and families with children under 4 can receive vouchers for healthy food and milk, topped up every four weeks onto a prepaid card.
15. Funeral Expenses Payment – Up to £1,000
Those arranging funerals for a loved one may qualify for help with costs up to £1,000, provided they meet the benefit and relationship criteria.
16. Childcare Support – Up to £1,769/Month
Universal Credit covers 85% of childcare costs, capped at £1,014/month for one child and £1,739/month for two or more.
17. Free Childcare – Up to £7,500/Year
In addition to cost reimbursement, eligible families may also receive up to 30 hours/week of free childcare, saving as much as £7,500 annually.
18. Glasses and Eye Tests – Save £233.56
Universal Credit recipients may receive free NHS eye tests and discounted glasses, provided their income meets criteria for NHS Low Income Scheme assistance.
Benefit Summary Table
| Benefit Type | Potential Value | Eligibility Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Warm Home Discount | £150 | Low income, eligible energy provider |
| Social Tariff Broadband/Mobile | £196.68/year | Universal Credit or similar benefits |
| Free School Meals | £503.50/child/year | Universal Credit/Child Tax Credit/JSA |
| Council Tax Reduction | Up to £2,280 | Low income/benefits, varies by council |
| Water Bills (Social Tariff) | Varies (Hundreds) | High usage, Universal Credit, WaterSure |
| Energy Grants | Up to £1,500 | Via energy supplier |
| Free Health Services | £9.90/prescription, others | Universal Credit and earnings threshold |
| Help to Save | £300/year | Universal Credit/Working Tax Credit |
| School Uniform Grant | Up to £200 | Certain benefits, varies by location |
| Travel Discounts | Up to 50% | UC/Jobseekers, length of claim |
| Flexible Support Fund | No cap | Discretionary via Jobcentre |
| Maternity Grant | £500 | Benefits + first child/twins/triplets |
| Healthy Start Vouchers | £442/year | Pregnant/child under 4 + benefits |
| Funeral Payment | £1,000 | Benefits + qualifying relationship |
| Childcare Support | £1,769/month | UC recipients with children |
| Free Childcare | £7,500/year | Eligible UC families |
| NHS Eye Tests & Glasses | £233.56 | Low-income + UC + NHS criteria |
For those on Universal Credit, there are thousands of pounds in hidden perks, government grants, and discounted services waiting to be claimed. From childcare and schooling support to energy and water bill reductions, these benefits can significantly ease the cost of living.
By actively checking your eligibility and applying through the appropriate channels, you can potentially unlock savings worth over £17,000 a year. Don’t miss out—take action this August and make sure you’re receiving all the support you’re entitled to.
FAQs
Can I apply for all these benefits at once if I’m on Universal Credit?
No single application covers all benefits. You must apply individually for each benefit through your local council, DWP, or provider.
Is there a deadline to claim the Household Support Fund?
Yes, the current phase of the Household Support Fund runs until March 31, 2026. It’s best to apply early before funds run out.
What if I’m receiving Universal Credit but my income changes?
Changes in income can impact your eligibility for some benefits. You must report changes promptly to DWP to ensure accurate entitlements.