Welfare reforms - changes to benefits system
From April 2013 the government is making huge changes to the
benefits system. If you’re claiming benefits you need to do all you
can to be prepared.
If you’re of working age the changes are likely to affect you.
If you are of Pension Credit age (receiving Pension Credit) you
won’t be affected.
Summary of main changes
Reduced rates for tenants of private. landlords, new rules about
spare rooms for council and housing association tenants.
Abolished and replaced with a Local Council Tax Support
Scheme.
Replaced by Personal Independence Payment for people aged 16-64.
.
The Community Care Grant and Crisis Loan elements of the Social
Fund will cease from 1 April 2013. The Discretionary Crisis Fund is
a fund of last resort to help people who are in a crisis.
Limits the overall amount of benefit households will
receive.
Replaces lots of other benefits that a household receives and
instead households will get one benefit paid monthly.
Download a leaflet giving a summary of the benefit
changes (303kb pdf)
If you're claiming Housing Benefit use the Welfare Reform
Calculator to work out how you'll be affected
and what your options are.
Contact local or national organisations for money, benefits and
debt advice.
If you've got a question about the benefit changes see if
it's answered on the frequently asked questions
page.
Getting a job is the best way of preventing the impact of the
benefit cuts.
Good ideas to make the most of your money.
Related news stories
Practitioners guide
How to ... help tenants manage there
money - This guide considers the practical ways
you can help your tenants improve their money management, access
financial products which are right for them and know where to turn
for advice and support.
Welfare reform: preparing for
changes - National Housing Federation.
.
