Guides
Benefit guides
Step-by-step help for every stage of a claim — from checking if you qualify to challenging a decision. Every guide shows its sources and when it was last checked.
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Step by step journeys
Follow a whole process from start to finish
4 STEPS
Claiming Universal Credit- 1 Check if you can get it
- 2 Gather your documents
- 3 Apply online
- 4 Prove your identity
5 STEPS
Getting PIP- 1 Call to start your claim
- 2 Fill in the form
- 3 Send medical evidence
- 4 Go to your assessment
4 STEPS
Challenging a decision- 1 Read your decision letter
- 2 Ask for a reconsideration
- 3 Wait for the new decision
- 4 Appeal to a tribunal
All guides
- How to claim Universal Credit
What you need before you start, how to apply online, and what happens in the first 5 weeks.
- How Universal Credit is worked out
The standard allowance, extra amounts for children and health, and how earnings reduce your payment.
- PIP: preparing for your assessment
What the assessor looks at, how points are scored, and how to describe your bad days.
- Child Benefit: claiming and the high income charge
Who can claim, how far it can be backdated, and when you may have to pay some back through tax.
- Asking for a mandatory reconsideration
How to challenge a benefit decision, the one-month time limit, and what to include.
- Pension Credit: are you missing out?
Who qualifies, what it unlocks, and how to apply by phone or online.
- Carer's Allowance and work
The weekly earnings limit, what counts as earnings, and how to avoid an overpayment.
- Help with rent through Universal Credit
How the housing amount works for private and social renters, and what the bedroom rules mean.
- The benefit cap explained
Which benefits count, who is exempt, and the 2026 to 2027 cap levels.
- Appealing to a tribunal
What to do if your reconsideration fails, how hearings work and how to prepare evidence.
- Attendance Allowance for over State Pension age
Help with care needs if you are over State Pension age, and how to fill in the form.
- Council Tax Reduction
How to apply to your local council and how discounts work alongside other benefits.
Common questions about our guides
Are these guides official government guides?
No. Benefits Guidance is independent. Our guides explain official rules in plain English and link to primary sources on GOV.UK. For authoritative guidance, always check the relevant official page.
How do I claim Universal Credit?
You apply online through GOV.UK. You will need your National Insurance number, bank account details, an email address and a phone number. You will also need proof of identity. Our step-by-step guide walks through each stage.
What is a mandatory reconsideration?
A mandatory reconsideration (MR) is a formal request to DWP to look at a benefit decision again. You must request one within one month of the decision letter. If the MR does not change the decision, you can appeal to an independent tribunal.
How do I prepare for a PIP assessment?
Describe how your condition affects you on your worst days, not on a good day. Bring any evidence such as medical letters, prescriptions or care plans. Recording is now on by default — you can ask for a copy. Our guide explains the scoring criteria in detail.
How often are the guides updated?
Every guide shows a 'Checked' date. We review all guides after each April uprating and after any relevant law or policy change. We aim to update rate figures within 24 hours of DWP publishing its annual rates document.
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