Single Working Parent Benefits and Entitlements

Originally written by Wendy Sloane, updated by the editorial team on 2nd April 2026

There are many types of benefits and entitlements available to parents. Some are designed expressly for single parents, while others are only for single working parents. You will need to look carefully to see which category you fit into, and you may have to make changes if your own circumstances change.

Benefits and Entitlements Include

employment support through Jobcentre Plus
Universal Credit
Universal Credit housing element/Council Tax Reduction
Sure Start Maternity Grant
Universal Credit child element
Universal Credit work allowances
Child Benefit
Child Maintenance

employment support through Jobcentre Plus (NDLP)

The NDLP is not only for parents who are not working, it is also for those who work 16 hours a week or less and are looking to get back into full-time employment. It can provide you with the training you need to get a better job, as well as help with writing CV's, improving your job interview skills etc.

Additionally, the NDLP can also provide you with money to help pay for transport and/or childcare costs as you look for employment, have a job interview, begin work etc.

Universal Credit

Any single parent who earns a low income – and is either unemployed or works only 16 hours a week or less - can get Universal Credit and/or Housing Benefit. Apart from monetary payments, you can also receive free dental care, prescriptions, school meals, Housing Benefit, and Council Tax Benefit. You also must have savings of less than £16,000 to qualify.

Universal Credit housing element/Council Tax Reduction

Any person who pays rent and is on a low income may qualify. You will have part of your rent paid and it does not matter if you are working or not. For Housing Benefit, the amount you receive may change if you have savings over £3,000. If your income and savings are below the government cut-off, you may also get payments toward your Council Tax.

Working Parent Support Checker

See what financial support a working parent could be entitled to, from free childcare hours and tax-free childcare to Child Benefit and Universal Credit help.

Try our Working Parent Support Checker free, here on this site →

Sure Start Maternity Grant

If you are pregnant you can qualify for a £500 Sure Start Maternity Grant to enable you to buy baby items. This is available to both single mums, and those who are part of a couple, but depends on income.

Universal Credit child element

Not only single parents can get this benefit. Any parent can qualify for child tax credit by fitting the means-tested profile and having to look after any child under age 16. You may also qualify for credit once the children are a bit older you may if they are in full-time training or education.

There are two forms of CTC: a family element and a child element. If you have a new baby, a disabled child or a severely disabled child you may get additional money, and you will get more for each child you have.

Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.

Universal Credit

Formerly the Universal Credit, the Universal Credit, or WTC, aims to help people who earn the least money. This entitlement is also means-tested, and is paid to people who work 16 hours a week or more, either self-employed or employed by someone else. You must work in the UK and the amount you get will depend on your income. Tax credits to help with childcare costs may come as part of the WTC.

Child Benefit

Virtually anyone with a child aged 16 or under is entitled to this benefit, which is paid monthly and given out regardless of income or personal circumstance. This can be extended beyond the age of 16 if the child is in full time 'non advanced' education or on an approved training course. Register after your child's birth and the money should soon be winging its way to you. It goes directly to the person who looks after the child, so if you have custody the money will go to you.

Child Maintenance: Changes to the Law

You may be eligible to receive Child Maintenance from the father of your children. And the good news is that the government has announced that from 2010 single parents who on Universal Credit will also be able to keep any child maintenance they receive. It is estimated that this ruling will help lift more than 30,000 children out of poverty.

A variety of benefits are available to single parents, as well as single parents who work. Just because you earn an income doesn't mean you are not entitled to extra help. Speak to your local Benefits Office is you are unclear about which benefits you believe you have the right to receive. If you're planning on working for yourself you should read our feature on how business will affect your benefits.

The Next Step

Now that you have read through the advice above, you might want to put it into practice. Our Working Parent Support Checker lets you see what financial support a working parent could be entitled to, from free childcare hours and tax-free childcare to Child Benefit and Universal Credit help. Try it now →

269 questions

Ask A Working Mum a Question

AWorkingMum Editor 17/05/2026 at 1:32 pm

@DAD Fair point, and you're right to flag it. The site name does narrow things, but the benefits and entitlements info on this page applies equally to single dads, so please do make use of it. We'll have a look at the wording across the site to make sure single fathers feel included too. Hats off to you for raising your lad on your own.

DAD 11/06/2024 at 2:26 pm

Just want to say that I am a single "father" raising my 6 year old son. I find it incredibly insulting that your website mentions single mums only. Yes, I know your site is called Single Working Mum, but let's try and provide advice and support for single working "parents" eh?

Father 01/02/2024 at 8:50 pm

Hi I cannot help but notice the misogyny all over your pages. It is not only women who become single parents is it ?

Weemary 11/12/2023 at 8:29 pm

Hi I am a single mum off a 12 month old baby
I have in sept came of maternity leave and due to my circumstances I had to make the choice to not return to my work
Does anyone know what I can can claim
I am really struggling I never got the grant for baby items
I never got the grant to help towards baby milk
Why I don’t know I only worked 16 hours per week
I have no help
Any advice would be great
I am
Also in a private rent and have to pay 50 per month off my benefits towards this

Lea 28/07/2023 at 9:53 am

Hi I have teenage twins and I live on my own in council house and have bills my hours was dropped at work then after that my tax credits was dropped I got help with cutting bills down and cancelling things like boys clubs as dad doesn’t pay as can say as he has oldest and claiming benefits for him he disent not have to pay me even though he having them less now . I have once bills are taken out hardly anything to live off it goes on food and then boys when need uniform and foot wear . Is there anything else I can do as can’t get another job as my full time job draining as it is .

Mya 17/05/2023 at 11:35 am

Hello,

I am a single parent and have a new born. My new born is a months old and I’m on maternity allowance up to December which is £600 a month. Universal credit expect me to pay towards my rent. My rent is 460. This month they wanted me to pay 170. Is this normal? As I have other bills! Also if I did go back to work and done 16 hours .. what would I get? I don’t get how they expect people to live off that and pay towards rent?? With gas and electric going up

Liz 17/01/2023 at 8:39 pm

Hi I am a single mum of a 3 year old I wanted to know if I’m to start working 30 hours will I be entitled to working tax credit and housing benefits the yearly salary is 20,000

N/a 19/07/2022 at 8:44 pm

I’m seeking advice for my daughter, she’s pregnant with their first child, doing an apprenticeship, she will be to returning to her apprenticeship after her baby is born but still lives at home with myself and her dad and will be a single parent.
What help can she get/ can she claim benefits to help her?

Myroula Pavlous 16/07/2022 at 11:09 pm

Hi l am a single mum 14 girl and my boy 13 l working part time at the and l do 16 hours.I wanted to if l went to full time which is 40 hours would l still be able to claim working tax and child tax or am l better saying on 16 hours.

C123 18/06/2021 at 8:39 pm

Hello,
I have separated with my ex and we have. A 3 year old son who lives with me. I am ready to buy a property with my savings but earn £19,500 a year working full time plus commission. I am looking to get a guarantor on the mortgage to help me buy but I’m worried once I have brought a home I won’t be able to live as the mortgage payments look like they will be around £1300 which is my monthly pay. Would I be entitled to benefits and if so what? Or would I not be eligible if I own my house? I do not currently receive any benefits and cannot find advise anywhere on this. Please help! Thank you!

Art 09/06/2021 at 9:57 pm

I'm a single father and parent raising my daughter I have a renting my apartment I have custody of My 8 yr old daughter it's been two years now since I received custody of her I've been able to pay my bills on time even with paying child support but payroll just informed me that they'll be deducting two more cases all three are for rears so I'm looking for subsidizing housing in my area or resources

Ljames 23/05/2021 at 10:27 am

I'm working 16 hours week im claim working tax .. how many more hours can i work before they stop working tax .

Stela 17/04/2021 at 5:17 pm

Tocmai ce mi-am luat fata de 12 ani si am parasit casa in care locuiam cu chirie impreuna cu concubinul meu. Acum locuim cu niste prieteni. Nu imi pot permite sa platesc singura chirie. Lucrez 40 de ore pe saptamana. Pot primi vreun ajutor???

Stela 17/04/2021 at 5:12 pm

Tocmai ce am parasit casa unde locuiam cu concubinul meu. Impreuna avem o fata de 12 ani. Stam impreuna cu niste prieteni acum. Lucrez 40 ore pe saptamana. Imi puteti spunde daca pot primi ajutor va rog frumos??

den 11/03/2021 at 9:00 am

Hi I am sefemployed I work full time, I am a single parent, on two children who need to go to college can I get some benefits about schooling or any other financial help? thank you

A 08/03/2021 at 9:52 am

I’m currently separating from my boyfriend of 4 years. We have two children 1 and 3. I will have to move out of the house we own together and rent somewhere with the children. I have no savings and work 22hrs a week. I’m paid £13000 a year. What help could I get from the government? Just until I’m back on my feet.

Rorey 04/02/2021 at 7:35 pm

Hi l am a single mum 1 girl 8 and my boy 10 l working part time at NHS at the minute and l do 17 hours.I wanted to if l went to full time which is 30 hours would l still be able to claim working tax and child tax or am l better saying on 17 hours.

Bes 09/01/2021 at 9:01 pm

I am.in the process of leaving my husband. I am planning on going into a rented property. I have 2 children 4 and 12. I work 32 hours a week at a yearly rate of 14,000 before tax etc. Would i be entitled to anything to help with rent etc? Thank you

Parso 26/12/2020 at 2:40 am

I am separating from my defacto husband I will be the primary carer of our 8 year old son I work permanent part-time average 27 hours a week what kind of benefits would I be entitled to as I need to find somewhere to live and need to know what I would be able to afford to pay for rent

Yiytey 21/12/2020 at 3:07 pm

Hi I am returning to work full time after being made redundant. I have two children age 8 and 5 and I’m a single parent in a council property in Scotland. I’m just wondering if I’m entitled to any benefits as I’m going to slightly worse off working again? Many thanks.

Goofy 30/10/2020 at 10:45 am

Hi I have a son who is about to turn 18 and in his final year at 6th form. I am separating from my partner and will need to go into rented accommodation, will I receive any help?
I work 37 hours a week in the nhs and won’t be able to afford to do this on my own and cannot reply on my son in this current climate to get work.
Thank you, any information is greatly received.

Almaz 16/09/2020 at 10:55 pm

Hello, I am a single mum and I have 9 year daughter. I have got a my benefit ,Child benefit and housing benefit as well. If I work 15 hour/week is it affect to my benefit.
Thanks a lot.

Bex 02/09/2020 at 6:00 pm

I work full time and provide for my family (SO and baby). Although I work full time, I can't afford to rent in this area and so am in an awful toxic situation with another person as well as my family who is the main Tennant in the property, which is council. I'm being offered no help and have had to raise a safeguarding due to the dangers of living here with my baby who I leave every day to essentially slave away and not even be able to afford to put a roof over our heads. At this point, I'm wondering whether it is actually worthwhile quitting my job, breaking up with my partner. Does anyone have any experience or can they tell me if financially this is a better option? I'm tired of slaving away at that is supposed to be a decent job when I can't even afford to live around here and missing out on my little girls childhood for possibly no reason at all, when I could be a stay at home single mum and actually end up with more money at the end of the month. I earn around £1400 PM.

RE 23/08/2020 at 10:14 am

Hi

I have just become a single parent, my child is 3 yrs old. I work full time 38 hours a week, earn approx 22k p/y.. I have taken over the mortgage which was in joint names. I am trying to keep some normality for my daughter by staying in the same home but financially very difficult. Would I be entitled to any benefits or support. Many thanks

BAM 23/08/2020 at 9:14 am

Hi there,

I want to separate from my husband, I work 40 hours p/w and earn 25k p/y. Would I be entitled to any benefit?

Thank you!

Tima 16/08/2020 at 4:24 pm

Hi , I’m a single mom n I hv one boy , 20 year old , I’m working for a agency temporary work an I work 32 hours per week, is there any benefits which I can claim?

KSRcarnie 27/07/2020 at 7:56 pm

Single mum, two boys. One is 14 the other 8. Just wondering what I can claim. I do work full time in a school. All advice is greatly appreciated.

Trace 26/06/2020 at 1:34 pm

Hi I’m a single mum of two boys. I currently work 16 hours. One son has just turned 18 and going on to college now he’s left school. My other son is still in school aged 13.
I privately rent a 3 bedroom property and receive housing benefit of £83.20 a week. This has now been stopped due to (changers in household) is this right as I’m still on a low income one child at school and another a further education.
Any info will help as I’m worried I’ll have to move home which I really don’t won’t to do.

Apinya 03/06/2020 at 3:08 pm

Hello I'm single mum leaving with 10th years old girl working 16 hours/week thinking about working full time! how much would I get help from working tax and child tax credit/month please? And how much would I be taxing if I work 45-50hours/week?

Thank you.

MMD 28/05/2020 at 10:24 am

Hi I am going through a divorce and working 35 hours a week @11 ph with 2 kids 5 and 7.
My question is we live in the matrimonial home mortgage is paid the kids father. If I want to take on the mortgage is there any support I can claim from the govt as a single parent?

Yve 21/05/2020 at 7:06 pm

Hello,

I am single parent to a 13 year old and I am just about to graduate. In October I will be starting a Master's, part time, for three years.

I would like to work part time whilst studying and I am unsure if I would be entitled to help with my rent. If I work 16 hours per week would I be entitled to help paying my rent?

Thank you.

Liz 10/05/2020 at 6:41 pm

I have split up from my partner and had to relocate to my home town with my baby and leave my job. We have a joint mortgage and I will be living in the house can you tell me what I am entitled too?

Gem 24/04/2020 at 1:18 pm

Hi I am due to give birth to my first child and I will be a single parent. I have just bought my first home through a shared ownership scheme in which I pay my rent, service charge and mortgage each month. I also work full time and my salary is £24500 per year. I will be receiving full maternity pay from work for 13 weeks and then I will return to work whilst my mother looks after my child. Can you tell me what benefits if any I would be entitled to under the above circumstances. Thanks

Chloe 22/04/2020 at 6:42 pm

Hi, I’m newly pregnant with my 1st child, I work part time 25 hours a week. I will be a single parent, what benefits will I be entitled to claim?

MimOf2 24/03/2020 at 5:28 pm

Hi am a single mother of to kids ages 3 & 13 am working 40 hours, can anyone help me with wat a should claim & it’s am entitled to anything also ina rented house..
thanks

Bob 15/02/2020 at 9:32 pm

Hi
I'm single dad my son just turn to 5 years I Need to work if I work part time what benefits I'm entitled.
Regards,, Bob

Annie 27/01/2020 at 4:49 pm

Hi asking for a friend who works full time single with an 8 year old, is she entitled to any thing being a single mum

Laura30 08/01/2020 at 2:32 pm

Hi, I’m currently receiving universal credit, as a single parent, hopefully about to starta new job working 15 hours. Will I be better off at all? And do I need to work 16 or more to receive working tax credits? Anyone in a similar suituation?

Umusuhayb 23/10/2019 at 9:26 pm

Hi iam single parent iam work 20 hours per week so please i want know how many hours paying house benefit full rent

Rubi 14/10/2019 at 1:14 pm

I’m single mother I’m working 16 hours per week my salary 600 months I have 12 years old doughter I have pay mortgage 1000 plus car insurance pay all bills please advise me and help me

F 02/09/2019 at 9:38 pm

Hi I'm single parent am working full time but still struggling is there any help/support I can get as a single parent.

Kym 28/08/2019 at 2:28 am

Hi am a single mum of 3 my two older kids have the same dad who gives me money towards them but I don’t get any help for my youngest can’t even claim for her. She starts nursery in September and I wanted to go back to work but I don’t know what I can claim and how many hours I’ll have to do? I’ve not worked since having my little one that was 2 years ago and honestly can’t remember what I had to do?? Any one help

Dondons 15/03/2019 at 7:50 am

I am a single mom with a 6 year old, work 38 hours a week, receive £6 per child maintenance, cannot claim any tax benefits because of my earnings, have a mortgage n obviously lots of bills ! Is there any tax benefit that can be done through work by any chance ? Seems I am penalize by working n owning my own home.

Bea 16/01/2019 at 12:18 pm

my mum is a single working mother of me (16 years old) my mum struggles to pay for my meals at school and for trips that are compulsory, is my mum eligible to claim for free school meals)

Mairy 19/11/2018 at 1:08 pm

I am a working mother of two girls (7years and 20month old). I work 30hours a week, with mortgage and loans to cover along with all the monthly standard payments and childcare.. I am on separation with the girls' father who is unemployed therefore he cannot support with any of the above expenses. at the moment I am struggling to keep up with all the payments and work to this hours as well as paying for the childcare. is any help I could get so I can keep my work at the same time.

Regards
Mairy

Oxo 06/11/2018 at 7:14 pm

I work 27 and half hours a week and single parent what benefits am I entitled to any help would help

Taz 28/09/2018 at 3:07 am

Hi there.

I'm a single parent to a 9yr old and I claim direct payment for my father, as I am the carer for 10.5hrs a wk and paid 8.65 phr, which tally upto £360 a month. My income support stopped due to this and I was made to pay back which I'm still paying off. I'm struggling hard at the moment. But I read that I should still qualify for income support if I'm working under 16hrs a week. I also care for my mother and disable brother when he stays a few nights at my mums house, I'm in a position where I can't work and can't afford much. Can you help and can I reclaim anything owed from income support?

AWorkingMum Editor 21/09/2018 at 2:18 pm

If you are a single parent and you are the resident-parent of your child, then , which will tell you all you need to know.

Kevin Griggs 21/09/2018 at 7:19 am

Hi I am a struggling single dad my daughter is 12, and money is very tight at the moment. I work full time too doing about 8 hours a day. Is there any extra benefits I could claim to help with keeping my daughter??

Demi Ward 18/09/2018 at 9:43 pm

Hi
Iv been offerd a job for 16hrs. Monthly wage my children are in achool and nursery .. school full time and nurseryhe onli goes part time hes 2.. what would i be entiltled to would i stil receive housinh benfit and all that .. thanks

AWorkingMum Editor 16/08/2018 at 2:25 pm

The link here should help answer your question. She may also have to speak with the DWP directly to find out more.

Joysey 16/08/2018 at 9:14 am

My daughter is a single mum of one daughter age 4. She works 14 hours a week. She needs a month off work due to an ankle operation (leg in plaster, no weight bearing). She has been told that she does not qualify for SSP,but she can't manage without this money. Any help please?

AWorkingMum Editor 13/08/2018 at 10:55 am

In this case, you may wish to call the apprenticeship helpline via whichwhich should help answer your questions.

Little Uncertain 11/08/2018 at 4:08 pm

Afternoon, I'm currently working part-time (16 HRS a week) however that may change shortly as I may be starting a Full time Apprenticeship (37 HRS a week). I've used the Entitled To calculator to help me decided to take the apprenticeship or stay part time as my Financial situation will change quite a bit, but have found it didn't help really. My son is already in nursery part time but will change pending employment. I just need a little guidance on where to look for help/advice with full time apprenticeships and the impact on my housing benefit, tax credits and child care element.
Many thanks in advance.

AWorkingMum Editor 26/07/2018 at 12:23 pm

Unfortunately, we can neither help to tell you whether your daughter is getting the correct amount. The Citizens Advice Bureau may be able to help her with her benefit calculations and the Turn2Us helpline here , may also be able to be able to give guidance.

Frustrated 25/07/2018 at 3:07 pm

Hi my daughter is a single mum with 2 daughters aged 9 and 6. She works 9 hours a week at £8 an hour and rents a 2 bed house from the local housing association. She is really struggling to pay her bills at the moment and is close to a breakdown but is finding that there is No One there to help. We are convinced that she isn't getting paid the correct amount of universal credit. It seems she will be much better off not working at all but this is not something she wants to do. She had already dropped her hours from 16 to 9 thinking she would at least qualify for more money but she is even more worse off. We have used the online calculators that the government website suggests and they all work out around £400 More than she actually gets. When she has questioned this she is told that she is getting paid the correct amount and to see her local mp if not satisfied. Are the online calculators correct? She is at her fits end and doesn't know were to turn next.

Kez 21/07/2018 at 12:55 pm

I work as a TA, 30 hours a week.. a single parent of 2.. a 20 year old, and an 18 year old, both at University, but are home during breaks.. am I entitled to any benefits?

Shelly 10/07/2018 at 1:59 pm

Im a single parent of a toddler working 30 hours per week would i be entitled to housing benefit?

Jules Editor 01/06/2018 at 12:08 pm

@laura - I suppose housing would say why can't you remove the toys from your daughter's bedroom or play with her in the living room. I feel your pain - it must be really difficult for you - but I don't think you would be able to justify this. Can the doctor not give your daughter a sleep aid?

laura 31/05/2018 at 7:10 pm

Hi I'm a single mum. Working 16 hours a week over 39 weeks per year as a TA. My daughter is nearly 4 with severe speech language and communication delay. I was looking for a 3 bedroom as my daughter will be up all night playing with toys in her room so I need to have her in my bedroom and can take up to 2-3 hours to settle her so a extra bedroom with no toys or things that keep her awake would benefit. If i have a 3 bedroom my housing benefit decreases to £65 instead of £95 a week. She's under assessment for asd but takes years as she's so young. Paying for private speech therapy as NHS are slow seeing her. Seen last 18 months ago. Some nights I'm up all night and thinking of finishing work as it's hard. Some nights she up all night playing with her toys in bedroom. Due to not understanding instructions and safety I need to stay awake. Any advice

AWorkingMum Editor 24/05/2018 at 10:31 am

You would have to apply directly for housing benefit/universal credit. However, you cannot apply for these benefits to be back-dated, you would only be entitled to money from the date you register your application.

Shazza 23/05/2018 at 11:44 am

hi im a single mum to a 5 year old and had to leave my job with immediate effect on the 6th April i have just got a new job starting on the 1st June 2018 can i get any help with my rent for the two months i havent been working as i am now behind on my rent?

Angela 17/05/2018 at 3:55 pm

Hi I have questions I working 17 hours a week (part time) I got 2 kids under 16 and I'm single mother I leave in 2 bedroom house but we wanna move to 3 bedrooms I already got housing benefit I wonder if we move to bigger house I will still get housing benefit ? Thanks

AWorkingMum Editor 17/05/2018 at 12:27 pm

This would have to be negotiated between you and your mother mutually.

Shan617 16/05/2018 at 11:03 am

Hi I’m 17 years old, I’m looking to work 16 hours a week and I am in full time education? Will this mean I’ll have to pay my mother who claims benefits rent?

AWorkingMum Editor 14/05/2018 at 12:39 pm

We cannot tell you directly what you are entitled to, you would have to use the benefit calculator via which

sam 12/05/2018 at 1:51 pm

hi I'm am a single parent and I work 20 hours a week on minimum wage my son is 8 years old, also I get low rate of working tax credit, I have to paid most of my council tax and all my rent I get no help as such when I phone housing benefit up they told me that I don't qualify for housing benefit why?
it work out when i get paid from work its all gone on rent and council tax and have no money left over for any other house hold bill or food and clothing for my son I also have to pay for school dinners need some advice

SaraR Editor 13/04/2018 at 11:10 am

@cat - while you're still in receipt of child benefit, your benefits shouldn't be affected.

Cat 12/04/2018 at 1:54 pm

Hi im a single mum with three children. My oldest who is 15 has just got a saturday job can i still claim benefits or will they cut my benefits because of her 7 hours she going to be doing on saturday even though shes still at school? Can anyone help

AWorkingMum Editor 10/04/2018 at 10:51 am

You can see more whichwhich will help answer your question.

Jackamoo 09/04/2018 at 1:33 pm

Hi I’m looking 4 some advice, I’m a single working parent, I’ve been working 18hrs a week 4 the last 5 years, 2 weeks ago my employer has cut my hours 2 12hrs a week she has said this is only short term till my work place picks up in work again , my question is if this only carry’s on 4 a month or so do I hav 2 tell tax credits my hrs hav been cut

AWorkingMum Editor 16/03/2018 at 2:44 pm

You can use the benefits calculator via whichwhich will tell you what benefits you are entitled to.

Cat 14/03/2018 at 8:26 pm

I have split with my husband I work 16 hrs week 6thousand a year I have 2 children and a mortgage what help could I receive.

Many thanks

Cousins26 14/03/2018 at 6:57 am

Hi I’m working 16 hrs and I did get a paid break of 30 mins, they now are not going to paying for the paid break and I’m now going to have the break taken out of my wages. Do I still qualify for working tax credit

Stapo 30/01/2018 at 4:12 pm

Hi I'm earning 30 thousand a year I've got one daughter who's 15 I get family allowance can I get any more help thanx you wayne

Annie 23/12/2017 at 5:01 pm

I am currently a single parent working part time. Expecting my second child am I entitled to child care cost when baby is born so I can go back to work after maternity leave?

Marie86 19/12/2017 at 2:41 pm

hiya..just recently split with my partner so will after drop my fulltime hours down to parttime..will i be better off financially doin 16 hours or 27 hours.any advice will be helpful thank you..

AWorkingMum Editor 12/12/2017 at 10:19 am

You can see more via whichYou would really have to find the course you wish to do, then find out what help you are entitled to, then have a word with your employer directly. There is no guarantee your employer will allow you to reduce your hours. So, it is better that you make sure you are in a stable financial position with a 'plan B' in place if your employer refuses your request. If you have worked for the same employer for at least 26 weeks, you would also be eligible to apply for flexible working

stephanie 11/12/2017 at 3:09 pm

Im a single mum of a 9year old. I work 25hours a week as a waiteress. I hate my job !! O want to go bback to college and study at the moment im struggling and want to gain qualifcations to get a better well payed job in the future. How do I go about this? Could I lesson my hours to go to college? Im really stuck and no one seems able to advise. Regards Stephanie.

galls 29/11/2017 at 2:20 pm

I am in the process of separating from my husband and looking to see what benefits I am entitled to. I earn £18000 per year working full time, I am in rented accommodation, which is private. I am £550 per month in rent, Would I get some help with my rent? I am left with very little at the end of the month, waiting list for the council is years!

JollyJ's 10/11/2017 at 7:43 pm

Hello,

I'm a single Mum and have been ever since my Son was born 8 years ago. For the last 11 months, I have been in a job where I get £22000 a year. I pay £200.00 a month childcare fees and when it's the holidays I pay £90.00 per week for childcare.

I am also paying back my student loan £40.00 per month which comes directly out of my wage. School Dinners are £11.90 a week and I was wondering if I got a different job where the money was £17500.00, would I be better off? As I'm guessing my Son would get free School dinners?

Thank you

Saj 03/11/2017 at 8:55 pm

I’m in a situation. Recently I’ve become a single father. I’m unsure of what to do. My toddler has to be left with his grandparents but they’re getting exhausted looking after him as he’s very active. I need to get him to some kind of nursery open silly hours if there’s such a thing?

Also I have no idea what to do about child benefit or working tax credit as all income has been halved. I’m all panic stations. I drop him off in the morning to his nursery then collect him in the evenings from his grandparents.

I need to spend time with him too and he’s asleep by the time I get him. He needs help with his speech therapy. He really needs me.

There’s council tax benefit but that’s not really going to cover the mortgage. I’m terrified of losing the house and being homeless with a toddler. Okay maybe I’m panicking like I said but I have no idea which way to turn or where to start.

AWorkingMum Editor 29/09/2017 at 3:40 pm

You can work out how much benefits you may receive to help you pay your rent via the benefits calculator here.

Laurie 29/09/2017 at 11:19 am

I am thinking about going back to work16 hours a week can you tell me how much I've got to pay on my rent for a single mam

Shish 26/09/2017 at 2:35 pm

I’m looking at getting a job for 16hours a week it’s £7.50 on weekdays and £8.50 on weekends. What benefits would I be able to claim? Would it effect my housing benefit? And would I get help with childcare?

bomi 21/09/2017 at 10:33 am

Hi
Am a single mum, studying full-time at the university and living in a private property with rent help from the council.
I receive child benefit and child tax credit. And because I am studying under healthcare, I get some support from NHS. My two children are 6 and 5 respectively

I would like to do some few hrs work but I dont know how much work am eligible to do without tampering with my benefits.

k 17/09/2017 at 7:41 pm

please help i am a single parent of two, live in a council property i am currently on ESA i would like to try and get back to work to improve our financial situation. I have been offered a job of 20hrs a week term time only so it fits in with school hours (although i will have to get after school club for my youngest). I need to know is it worth my while as i know its complicated with working more than the allowed 16 hours but not working full time. Please advise i dont want to end up more stressed with my mental health by trying to improve our life if it only makes a small or no difference thank you

Velma 11/09/2017 at 1:52 pm

Hi I don't know if working 6 hours will stop and restart my benefit and jsa. Im waiting for decisions on my son's PIP and ESa as he has anxiety. I also applied for carers allowance, as mo one looks after him but me, he doesn't go anywhere except 3 times in 6months with me. Because of this he doesn't qualify for tax credits now as not doing. Course or in education.
Im so worried and struggling on just my jsa, if I work 6 hours which I might get will it fall to pieces i can't find out even on turn to us

AWorkingMum Editor 08/09/2017 at 11:25 am

I can only direct you to the Turn2Us website, which may be able to help.

Sami 07/09/2017 at 1:59 pm

Hi im working 20 hours a week in the northeast i have two children i have only recently gone back to work after been on the esa since it came out befor that i was on incapacity can someone help me on which benefits im entitled to as all this going back to work really dosent seem worth it and is more stress on my mental health i seem to be a hell of alot worse off trying to better family life as a single mother of two

AWorkingMum Editor 05/09/2017 at 12:39 pm

It is impossible to give an answer on such little information, you would have to see via the Turn2Us link here to find out more.

Singlemom 04/09/2017 at 10:08 pm

Hi i am currently working 16hours but start my course in a few weeks, effecting 9 hours of my shift . my work may possibly let me keep my other 7 hours. i am a single parent with a 7 year ol . what help can i get ? seriously stressed out nee urgent advice please

AWorkingMum Editor 31/08/2017 at 11:25 am

You could get £62.70 a week if you care for someone at least 35 hours a week and they get certain benefits, You can see whether you may be eligible for help with school costs via whichTurn2Us may also help you

Sally73 29/08/2017 at 4:05 pm

This article is ridiculously out of date! The New Deal for Lone Parents was scrapped several years ago.
Income Support is payable to lone parents UNTIL THE YOUNGEST CHILD IS 5yrs OLD - this article implies it's payable to any lone parent and makes no reference to thw age restriction.
And no mention of Universal Credit - the biggest welfare reform being rolled out nationally which will replace ALL the above mentioned benefits.
Sarah Knowles - you may have a BA and MA, but very little knowledge of the "real world" for those of us surviving on low incomes.

tiger 29/08/2017 at 1:02 pm

I am working 16 hours a week I have three children and just wondering if I can get any help with the school dinners I'm also a carer for my mum is there any help I can get from benefits from the social I don't want to go back onto benefits but 16 hours a week and the money is not covering the school dinners or extra money I need

Meshialashay 25/08/2017 at 7:27 pm

Hi. I'm a single mother and I work at Hardees in VA. I make 7.50 an hour and I need help on moving out, I need a place to stay for my son and I. Is there any way someone can help me get benefits for my son and I?

Kye 24/08/2017 at 6:06 pm

Hi I currently work part time and my partner works full time..I live in a 2 bed very small council house with my 12 year old and partner I have a daughter sixteen who lives with her auntie.. she has got pregnant and her auntie is kicking her out.. would we be able to get a bigger council house we currently get no benefits and only just manage to pay the rent on the place we have.. thanks

Emz 03/08/2017 at 7:46 am

Hi there, I am trying to find out if I would still qualify for single parental support if I own my own home. I have far less than £16,000 in saving, I'm not working and have a 20 month old, although I am asset rich I am cash poor but don't want to sell and have even more change for my son who has had enough upheaval with our separation. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Mandy 01/08/2017 at 11:36 am

Im a single parent working 20hrs a week live in a 3 bedroom council house with 2 children under 16 how much rent would i have to pay weekly if my rent is £104 a week please help so stressed out thankyou

AWorkingMum Editor 24/07/2017 at 4:04 pm

I'm afraid not. Your 20-year-old is now classed as an adult and therefore you are no longer officially classed as a single parent. Your only recourse would be to ask for some financial support from your daughter/son directly.

Midlisa 23/07/2017 at 3:35 pm

I am a single parent and left full time employment last year to train as a midwife. I only get a small bursary and no other form of income as I work odd shifts during my training. I have a 20yr old who lives at home with me and is currently studying full-time at uni and working a part-time job. Are we eligible for any other kind of support as we are struggling to make ends meet, I only get council tax rebate currently.
Thanks

Lisa 21/07/2017 at 12:21 pm

Hey can anyone help me im single mum off 2 girls i work in the schools cleaning i am off with severe legs osteoarthritis!! I jave just lost my side kick my.mum and i jave realy bad depression!! i have not had one penny SSP and i have calculated what i get weekly they say doesnt fall in 4 weekly i said yes it does 27th off every MONTH i get payed it n i work some terms times all in service days so im different from other girls and £1.85 comes off dayly yo pay dor my other 3 weeks holiday but i got payed up untill april!! that was just half pay, if they are counting that in so they should be given me it i calculated it 3 times on gov page and saying i am defo intittled off work and TBH as lady said at job centre gov pays them so not them that paying it lol i am so stressed i am lost what to do i said to HR AT WORK i get wage slips it will state i earn 477 a month and i haven't had my holidays i have trabuted to so they have to pay and first they told me it down not haven NI NOW it was you earn under then it was another story and i have told them i have been to job centre they told me i earn the right amount etc HELP HELP HELP

Mich 13/06/2017 at 2:42 pm

I am a widower and if I work 24hrs per week would I still get any help with my rent and council tax

Ladyjane 12/06/2017 at 5:55 pm

Hi I am a single mum to a 5 year old. We live with my mum&dad I work 24hours a week my mum can't work. My dad has been in and out of work from September. Is there anything I can clam to help us ?? I pay towards rent and other bills

T 10/06/2017 at 11:04 am

Hi my daughter is in full time education and on the 29th of November 2017 she turns 16. I have been told by other parents that as I'm a single parent my daughter can receive a payment to stay on at school. Even without the payment my daughter will stay on in full time Education. However I thought I would look into this. I work 21.5 hours per week. I receive £251 a month in total for tax credits and working tax credits combined. If you can offer any information on my enquiry I would appreciate it. Thank you

regards T

Fran Editor 26/05/2017 at 10:20 am

@Danielle - you won't be able to get all your benefits and a student maintenance loan on top. You may be able to get some such as housing benefit and council tax support:
lone-parent students and student couples with children. Check with your uni - their financial dept will help you. Enjoy your studies!

Danielle 25/05/2017 at 11:38 am

Hi, I'm a single parent with 3 children with disabilities. I also suffer from depression and currently get employment support allowance. The problem is I'm really worried about my finances because I'm hoping to start a speech and language therapy course at university in September. I will be a full time student and will get a student maintenance loan and I don't know how this will change my benefit entitlement. I'm just worried that if my employment support allowance, housing benefit and council benefit stop, I won't be able to afford to go to university.
Any advice would be appreciated

al 25/05/2017 at 10:06 am

i am a lone parent with a 9 year old. i currently work night shifts (35 hours a week) I am wondering if i am actually better off working only 16 hours. i only receive £30 maintenance a month, as the father can only afford that amount, as he is working 25 hours a week himself on minimum wage. I am not struggling but have to be careful with my money. I would love to spend more time with my son, while he is young, as i am 50 but don't know if i would be worse off working 16 hours instead of 35. Am in a bit of a dilema was to what i should do - carry on working 35 hours or look for another job at 16 hours. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks. al.

Sarah 08/05/2017 at 3:50 pm

I am a single working mum I have a 4yr old and am pregnant.
I work 13hrs a week cleaning for myself while my son is at nursery.
Can I receive maternity as obviously when baby is due and born I won't be able to work for a few months. So I'm worried about finances.
I receive child benefit, housing benift, etc but rely on my cleaning money to make up the bill payments.
If I pay national insurance contribution will that mean I can receive maternity allowance

Nabs 06/05/2017 at 10:19 pm

I'm a single mother of 2 boys aged 6 and 3. I live in a housing association and work 32 hours a week. I am struggling with bills and in debt to . Can I get help

Sam 25/04/2017 at 1:44 pm

I work 22 hours a week an have a 7 year old an still live at my mums who also works but only 16 hours a week because she struggle with my younger brother. We are finding it hard to keep up with the bills on our wages would we be intitled to any housing benefit??

Watty 23/04/2017 at 8:43 pm

I work full time and have 18year old daughter who as globel learning disabilities can I get extra discount on my council tax and what other benifits can i get .I get wtc and she gets pip

BD1893 07/04/2017 at 3:18 pm

Hello,
I currently work 3 days a week on minimum wage, My daughter is 8 and I have been offered a 35 hour a week placement at the same work place. I receive housing benefit, Child tax, working tax and council tax reduction. When I start and work full time I will lose most of my housing benefit, lose around £25 a week working tax and no council tax reduction.

When I lose my council tax reduction, would I still be liable for single person council tax?
Is it worth going on to 35 hours a week on minimum wage?

I have used the 'Entitled-to' benefit calculator but I'm not sure if they very accurate?

Any help would be must appreciated!

Sue 04/04/2017 at 7:42 pm

I may have to have a foot op I work part time would I be able to get statutory sick pay and help with rent etc?

Sandi 07/03/2017 at 10:18 pm

Hi how much can a single person with 2 children earn before working tax is cut or stop ?

stapo 04/03/2017 at 8:08 pm

Hi I'm single working dad earning bout 27000 pound with two kids age 14 and 17 put my house up for sale because I can't afford to keep it am I entitled to anythink

Lizzie 24/02/2017 at 6:48 pm

Hi I'm looking for advice I have just found out my partner has cheated on me so we have broken up I currently work 30 hours a week with a little boy who is turning 1 once my ex leaves I'll be looking for benefits to help what can I apply for also would I be better off dropping my hours to 16
Thank you
Lizzie

Lou 23/02/2017 at 11:13 am

Hi iWork 16 hours a week,I have to kids aged 7 and 2,I claim working tax credits,imoved in with my dad and took over 3 bedrooms,he now wants me to pay rent,can I get any help with it

rifet 22/02/2017 at 9:56 am

i am single mum of a 5 yr old boy. i live in temp accomodation given by the council it has now been 13 months. i just want to know what benefits i might be entitled to. i work 5 hours a week.

VimiD 21/02/2017 at 6:33 pm

Hi, I am a single mother of a boy who jut turned 3. 4 months ago I found this part time job at a supermarket which was really close to his nursery and decided it was a great way to get back to work where I can work 16 hours and use his feet finding and in this case only
Paid half a day so I can be at work. But sadly, now he is 3 the nursery advised me by April that he can only claim 3 hours free funding as I will
Need to pay the rest of the time which will be double of what I'm
Paying now. I also am already struggling paying rent too and can't afford rent and childcare and cannot work over half term and cannot afford to pay even more to put him in nursery the month after. The Jobcentre keep telling me I'll be sanctioned if I leave my job and I won't receive any benefit but I cannot afford any childcare or rent even. If I move my son, to a different nursery I'll
Need to pay more even then as I'll need to travel to work and all. And I just cannot afford any of it.so my question is why am I being told I cannot claim
Income
Support and what do I do if I cannot afford any of the childcare and rent? I'm so worried and it's been over a week now trying to find answers. Thank you. Vimi

Beaks 09/02/2017 at 1:49 pm

I am currently unemployed single with two children, I dont get allowance from the father. If I started doing a commission paid job would I lose anything?

Rach 09/02/2017 at 9:03 am

Hi,

I'm pregnant and due to be a single parent. I work full time for the Metropolitan police and earn around £1800 after tax. I still live at home but have outgoings of around £800 a month.

To have this baby I will need to move out and afford somewhere else to live. The problem lies when I go back to work. I'm not entitled to low income help and I don't know how I will afford somewhere to live and childcare.

I don't want to leave my job as it's a career and so many doors are open to me and I want to work and support my child but I feel that I won't have enough.

Childcare fees are around 1k a month (I've enquiried)
So childcare fees and my current outgoings (which I cannot change) will leave me at £0 anyway let alone paying for rent somewhere.

I can't sleep, can't eat, Just found out the father of the baby had been sleeping with his ex and wants his family back (he has 2 kids with her and 2 kids from a previous relationship) he basically has said he wants nothing to do with me or this child.

My parents are not very supportive. They will let me stay at home for a few months (baby isn't due til September 2017) and save but they want me out before the baby is born and they can't help with looking after the baby as they say they're too old (60 and 65) and find it too difficult.

Someone help please.

Sm 29/01/2017 at 8:25 pm

Hey,
My a single parent and have a 12 year old child. I have just started working full time 35 hr a week and my annual income is £15000 I would like to know if I can get Housing benefits or not ?

Honey 28/01/2017 at 9:04 am

I'm a single working parent who has 2 children. I need to know what government figure is and what your supposed to live off a week for the havering area? I can't see to find it it use to be £250 but has changed.

Single Mum 24/01/2017 at 4:59 pm

I would just like to point out that this page is entirely aimed at single mums. What about single Dad's? Do they not have the same entitlements? Yet another example of it being socially unacceptable for the mother to leave the family home.

Ayesha 07/01/2017 at 2:19 am

Hi, my employment and support allowance has been stopped with no warning, no letter no nothing. I haven't been warned. I have a 15 week old baby to support and I'm a single parent. My housing benefit will get stopped and I'm worried about what's going to happen next. Can the DWP just stop my benefits without warning? I haven't been invited to a medical assessment so I'm confused. Thank you in advance.

AWorkingMum Editor 08/12/2016 at 10:05 am

Please see the Turn2Us website here which should help answer your question.

Mel 07/12/2016 at 11:18 am

Hi
I am a single mum of two, aged 5and 6.I have recently become self employed after being on JSA. I am a respite carer one night a week which is an overnight stay of 16hrs for £30 per shift and part time cleaner for 7hrs a week. I am now receiving working tax credits but no longer qualify for the housing benefit or council tax support. I don't understand this as I am only bringing home £100 a week. Please could you advise me on what to do.

AWorkingMum Editor 28/11/2016 at 10:37 am

If you work full-time and have a good credit history, there is no reason why you should not be able to rent privately. You may also be eligible for a council property, please see Shelter site here. Likewise, if your son is 14, a court may rule that you could stay in your present house until your child leaves full-time education. However, the question of who stays in the family home depends on whether it's affordable and your personal circumstances. For this you may benefit from seeking some legal advice.

way out 27/11/2016 at 1:44 am

Hello
I am 44 and work full time. I have a 14 year old . I currently have a mortgage but will be selling due to a break up.
where will I stand in renting

AWorkingMum Editor 08/11/2016 at 11:03 am

The CAB page here explains who has responsibility for paying the mortgage and what help is available if you might have to pay it on your own.

Dody 07/11/2016 at 12:27 pm

I am worried sick my daughter and husband have just spilt . The three children are living with my daughter. My daughter is working 16 hours a week . Will she get help with her morgage so they don't have to loose their home.
Thank you for your help
Diana

Bea 29/10/2016 at 4:34 pm

Hi i have recently gone to work. I work with an agency and i am taking atleast two shifts. Two shifts a week is 24 hours a week. Am i entitled to working tax credit.
I am a single parent living with my mum who isnt working. Im scared eveything will be affected
My son is only just turned two and his ment to start 15 hours free of nursery. What happens now?!

AWorkingMum Editor 27/10/2016 at 12:20 pm

I'm afraid we can't help with filling in forms etc. You would really need to speak to your Jobcentre again to ask for assistance.

NaeNae 26/10/2016 at 4:48 pm

I've been offered a Job, I'm a single parent of 3 one I claim dla for. I've been to job centre to try make an appointment for help with transition from benefits to working with not much other than to go online and fill a form in to see what help I can get. Just a little confused with the form as not sure if to put that in employed and also about housing benefit I forgot what it's called what I'm allowed to claim as a private tenant. Basically I'm jist confused with the whole process and when should I phone people as I can't afford to have money stopped and not be able to pay rent etc

AWorkingMum Editor 20/10/2016 at 12:20 pm

You can see more via the Turn2Us whichwhich should answer your question.

naomi 19/10/2016 at 1:34 pm

My daughter is a single parent to one child aged 5. she lives on her own with her child. she gets all the benefits that's she entitled to.she is on job seekers. the question is ÷ she has been offered a job at a nursery, it's only one hour a day, five days a week. does this affect any of her benefits? she has tried ringing job centre and just gets passed on to different departments. then hinges up on!! can anyone help.

Bakerboo 15/10/2016 at 6:30 pm

Hi can anybody help.
I am a single mum to a 16 month old. I currently receive child benefit and child tax credit. I don't qualify for income support.

I want to go back to work part time but nothing has really come up. A great job full time has come up but I am concerned about applying because full time nursery costs are astronomical. Can anybody advise am I entitled to any help at all ?
i.e. free nursery care or contribution ?
or any sort of tax credit ?
or anything really I think Im going to end up worse off...

thanks

Amanda

kimbo 06/10/2016 at 6:52 pm

Hi I've just started a job 16 hours but keep getting 16.45 hours a week my daughter is 5 in November I'm claiming working tax now my income support has stopped. I'm worried about the 45 mins over hours here and there each week.

Rachy 29/09/2016 at 9:05 pm

I am a single mum with a 3 year old. I receive full housing benefit, income support and child tax credits. My daughter gets 15 free hours nursery. Id like to go back to work-part time (16hours) but I'm worried about being worse off or daughter loosing her nursery hours. What are the facts? Many thanks

Nic 27/09/2016 at 12:43 pm

I am a single parent with one 21 year old who works full time living at home. Can you please tell me what I am entitled to

AWorkingMum Editor 12/09/2016 at 11:52 am

You can assess this via the Turn2Us calculator here. I hope this helps.

Paula 11/09/2016 at 10:17 am

Hi I'm a single parent I work 16 hours a week and been offerd another job 5 hours a week that 21 hours I have a 9 year old son would I still get help with my rent ?

Debmarielee 04/08/2016 at 1:59 pm

I am a single mum who has a 10 year old I at the moment work part my hours are 200 pm till 700 pm 200 pm till 930pm and 10 till 345 thir Fri sat I am having prob wit child minders as my daughter has started work which means that her shift can conflict with my hours and therefore she is unable to take care of my son during the hours after school can I be entitled to jobseekers of I were to terminate my employment

AWorkingMum Editor 02/08/2016 at 12:12 pm

Only the primary carer is entitled to register for benefits. If benefits are paid to one parent, some parents negotiate a split in benefits if they have negotiated a shared care agreement. However, this is rare. In your son's case and dependent upon their situation, and regardless of whether access is being shared it may be that his ex is also entitled to claim child maintenance from him, which you can see which

judas 01/08/2016 at 6:00 pm

Hello my son has just split from his partner and has a 2 year old daughter ..he works 4 days on and 4 off 12 hour shifts ...he picks his daughter up on his last shift and then they both live with us for the 4 days off ..is he entitled to any benefits?

K 03/07/2016 at 6:09 pm

Hi please help basically I have two children boy girl 7 and 6 I started work between 16 to 18 hours earning 7.20 an hour I'm struggling because I should be doing around 64 hours a week in order to get help with rent but because I done my training this month it was 30 hours trading for two weeks and I got paid for it this means I have done more than 64 hours this month but dose this mean now I won't get my full rent ? Please explain how it all works last time I went to work and my rent stop I got in debt and had to leave after 4 month and got put on was for severe depression . Thank you :)

bevster 10/06/2016 at 9:30 am

Hi,
I am a single mum of one and have been claiming WTC and CTC. I am employed for 12 hrs per week and self employed for 5-6 hours per week. Due to the new checks on the self employed, i have been requested to supply evidence of my self employment, which i have, i keep all records of work and money received. If they stop my tax credits,because they don't think my self employment is viable is there any other benefits i can claim for my employment of 12 hrs. Would it just be WTC that stop or both. Im hoping i pass the new self employment test, but i just like to be prepared just incase. I live with family so have no H/B or CTB.
Thank you

AWorkingMum Editor 06/06/2016 at 1:58 pm

Please see the site here which should be able to answer your question.

Soma 05/06/2016 at 10:45 pm

Hi can anyone help me with advice please I'm a single mum working 16 hrs (£80) a week. with childcare for 4 children. I started working in 14/08/2014 as self employed. My income support stop since I started to work. I get help with my childcare cost ,housing benefit, child tax,and working tax.they are any benefits my entitle to. Thanks

tink 04/06/2016 at 1:14 pm

Hi I have been offered a full time job. 42 hours at £7.50 ph. I have 4 dependant children. My rent is £87.00 a week. Will I be entitled to working tax credits

AWorkingMum Editor 19/05/2016 at 1:58 pm

Much depends also upon the salary you will be receiving and whether you have children or not, please see Turn2Us link here which will tell you more.

Roadrunner 18/05/2016 at 7:41 pm

I am a 52 year old lady and been unemployed for the last year. I have the opportunity to work 16 hours a week will I be entitled to working tax.housing benefit.poll tax

AWorkingMum Editor 13/05/2016 at 10:24 am

It's unlikely your ex will receive child benefit, especially if your son is working and you will be paying him a wage. Both Child Benefit and Child Tax Credits stop being paid to parents on August 31 on or after a child's 16th birthday, if they leave approved education or approved training. If your son is living with you then you should inform the Child Benefit office of the change in circumstances and you should be able to receive this in the short term.

Worn out dad 12/05/2016 at 5:04 am

Hi.
I have alway seen my son and had him over loads but the last 9 months he has moved in with me full time. He is 16 and will be doing a aprentiship with me as I am a builder and he will going collage one day a week He use to live with his mum and she still gets the child benifit Am I entitled to any financial help or child benifit ?

Ellie 06/05/2016 at 4:49 pm

Hi could you give me some advise ,my daughter who is nineteen has found out she pregnant from a one night stand ,she lives in a bed sit works 17 hrs a week will she get help .i don't live in England as i live abroad but my daughter lives in Liverpool ,I'm so worried about her and will she get help from the government

AWorkingMum Editor 28/04/2016 at 1:45 pm

You don't say what reasons your employer gave, but there are only limited reasons why your employer can refuse your statutory flexible working request. For example, because the business would be adversely affected. If you made a non-statutory request, your employer has to be reasonable, please see CAB link here which I hope will help. I also suggest you give ACAS a call who can advise you regarding your options. With regards to benefits Turn2Us will tell you what you may be able to claim

Kez 27/04/2016 at 6:10 pm

Hi can anyone help me with advice please I'm a single mum working full time with no childcare struggling with no help my request for flexible hours was turned down as was my appeal ( only asked if I could start 15 minutes later) due to this I have been put on sick for stress by my doctor as my employer keeps having a go at me for having to be late, now there not happy about me been on sick and having a go at me for that. Because I work full time I don't qualify for help with rent or council tax or childcare.

AWorkingMum Editor 22/04/2016 at 12:19 pm

You can see what you are entitled to claim via the Turn2Us site here. I hope this helps.

michelle 21/04/2016 at 5:12 pm

Hi I'm a single parent I work 36 hrs per week and have 2 boys my ex gives me no help and I'm soon going to have to start paying 475 a month rent can I get housing benifit ?

k34 15/04/2016 at 6:43 pm

I have a 17 year old son and a 8 year old the 17 year old has started a full time job i work 16 hrs a week and am a single mother how will this affect everything including rent ct and my wtc ctc

AWorkingMum Editor 11/04/2016 at 2:33 pm

I can only suggest you see whether you are eligible for any benefits via the Turn2Us whichor you would need to speak with your benefits office directly as there may be other benefits you can apply for.

Tito 11/04/2016 at 9:33 am

I am a single mother of 5 young children ages 10, 9, 5 and 4 yrs old twins. I work 16-20 hrs a week. I was affected by the benefit cap and was told i will be better off working. I found out it's not true. I am struggling to feed my children and pay my bills. I don't get any support from their father in fact he has left the country. I am in a deep depression cause i spend all my earnings paying for childcare. I am left with very little amount of money.

michelle johnston 02/04/2016 at 12:22 pm

hi im working 20 hrs a week,my daughter will be finished her course in june 2016 she is not returning education she gets the middle rate dla i also have a son of 20 living with me he is non depentant and is my daughters carer im wondering do i still get working tax credits after june as my daughter will be leaving her course i am on the minium wages which as just gone up to 7.20 an hour.i get a bit of help with housing benefit will i still receive it

Amber marie Musgreav 27/03/2016 at 1:02 pm

I'm a single parent currently working 40 pw my daughter is 15 am I entitled to any tax credits or any other help

Amber marie Musgreav 27/03/2016 at 12:59 pm

I'm 41 and have a 15 year old daughter.and currently work 40 pw also I'm a single parent

Julie 15/03/2016 at 5:51 pm

I have a 21 yr old son and i work 40 hours a week am i entitled to anything

rzv234 27/02/2016 at 4:50 pm

Help .. I have 19, I have NINO and work 30-33 hours a week. I am alone in England. There are benefits for me?

AWorkingMum Editor 04/02/2016 at 3:01 pm

Please see Turn2Us website here which will tell you what additional benefits you may be eltitled to.

Chingy 04/02/2016 at 10:33 am

I just started a, 16 hr job from 4 been there nearly 2 yrs i also have a 8 yr old i work durin school hours but i need to no if i can get ne help with term times as i work in d week so it hard gettin babbysitter specially summer holiday also cud i get help. Still with free school meals i get just over 200 foetnightly n i get child tax n workin tax i am alone parent. It hard as still gota, pay rent n council tax plus everyfink else .?

Steph 03/02/2016 at 10:21 pm

Hi. I work 16hrs and its minimum wage. Have a child age 10 & expecting & due Aug.How much maternity pay am I entitled to?

AWorkingMum Editor 27/01/2016 at 12:51 pm

Please see Turn2Us link here which should give you some advice and Entitled To - Better Off calculator here . I hope this helps.

Em 26/01/2016 at 11:55 pm

I have 3 dependants im on child benefit child tax and income support I want to start a job soon for 18 hours will I be better of im currently paying no rent in a council property I get housing benefits . Will I ne better or worse off everyone's saying different I realy need help don't know how to work it out.

Zee 24/01/2016 at 10:46 am

Have you any advice. I am a single mum currently working 18hours a week. I have a 2 year old and receive housing benefit, tax and child credits. my daughters father has her 3 days a week and will come see her most days. I have found out I am pregnant and he is the father. We don't live together he has his own place/bills. As he haves her 3 days a week I don't get maintenance from him. Will my benefits be affected?

Chi 21/01/2016 at 3:55 pm

I am a single parent with an 8 year old, I have recently increased my hours from 16 per week to 30. I private rent and get some housing benefit, since increasing my hours my rent has gone up and I am not entitled to more housing due to this. Is it worth my while to go full time??

AWorkingMum Editor 13/01/2016 at 12:11 pm

If you are living in the house as a single parent with the children, you may be eligible to Universal Credit, please see the Turn2Us website here.

Nutty 12/01/2016 at 6:54 pm

I have recently split from my parner have 2 kids wirk 16 hrs a week would i get help with my morgage as 2 names are still on it thankyou.

BBJJ 01/01/2016 at 1:11 pm

Hi I am a disable lone parent with 2 children .i am on Benifits. Sept 2016 my children are going to university. What will happen with my housing Benifits.

AWorkingMum Editor 26/11/2015 at 1:50 pm

Please see site Turn 2 Us here which may help you find out whether you are eligible for any benefits in the interim.

nikkibockerglory 26/11/2015 at 9:14 am

Hi, I'm a single mum with a 16 yr old who is still in school. I am bank staff and only get paid when I work. I have just been told that the company will be closing the offices for 2 weeks over Christmas (19th Dec to 4th Jan inc) so I won't have any wages paid. What help is there for me?

shelly 23/10/2015 at 9:23 pm

Is there any help with wages? As I am a single parent only work 16 hours + child is sick so I cant go to work so I will lose a week + half wages maybe more, so I will struggle is there any help in this way? Please + thank you

neets 17/10/2015 at 10:46 am

hi
Im a single parent with two boys 18 and 19 months. My 18 year okd is starting his apprenticeship in a week.
I have been offered a part time job of 15 hours a week which im considering. Im on full benefits at the moment. Will i get help with childcare and how will this effect my benefits. Please advise

Alicat 14/10/2015 at 12:26 am

I'm 17 years old and living at home with my parents I am currently looking to leave full time education to go onto an apprenticeship attending college 1 day a week through a local college I have an 18 month old daughter. Would I still be able to claim care to learn and income support
Thank you

AWorkingMum Editor 06/10/2015 at 11:51 am

I can't say how the shake-up may affect you, not knowing your full circumstances. But the site Turn2Us may be able to help.

nats 05/10/2015 at 2:22 pm

I am a single mum of a 14 and 16 year old.
I get £6 per week only taken from their waywood fathers benefits who has not worked for 14 years!!!
I work part time of 21 hours a week
How will the benefits shake up affect me?
I can barely make ends meet already.

AWorkingMum Editor 05/10/2015 at 10:56 am

It is a tricky question and one that would depend on what type of apprenticeship you are undertaking and the changes the govenment has made in these areas. I can only suggest you try and see whether you are eligible through an independent adviser via the Turn2Us whichI hope this helps.

Single parent of 1 04/10/2015 at 9:38 am

Hi, in wondering if any one can help me as I have searched the internet high and low and can not seem to get an answer, I am a 23 year old single parent of a 4 year old, I've seen so much publicity around apprenticeships and how good they are, I need to find out if I will be entitled to any help such as housing benefit, CTC and WTC as the hours of an apprenticeship are classed as full time but as everybody knows the apprenticeship wages are less than half the minimum wage for the first year. Please all help appreciated, Thankyou x

AWorkingMum Editor 16/09/2015 at 12:41 pm

You can see if you are entitled to any benefits via the Turn2Us whichI hope this helps.

Alina 15/09/2015 at 1:55 pm

Hi. I'm a single mother of two kids, aged 11 and 14, both of them in school. I'm working full time but money don't seem to be enough. I have no benefits at all, mostly because i just brought my kids here and i don't know what am i entitled to. It would be nice to have child allowence and a bit of help with the rent. I'm paying 750£ for 2 rooms in a sharing house, but i don't want to move, as i'm living with friends, so i don't need babysitters when i'm working. I would very much apreciate an answer. Thank you.

JW 13/09/2015 at 10:31 pm

Hi, I am currently married with 2 young children (both pre-school) and we will be separating after Xmas. My son (4 years old) will stay with me and my daughter will go with my wife. Will I be entitled to any support if I am working full time and earning £30k a year. I'm not sure of the differences in tax/benefits regulations in the UK as a whole, however I live in Scotland and I know there maybe regional variances. I currently have a mortgage, however will need to sell. Currently paying around £600 a month in child care just for my son.

AWorkingMum Editor 08/09/2015 at 9:58 am

You are entitled to 25% off your bill if you count as an adult for Council Tax and either, you live on your own, or no-one else in your home counts as an adult. Your daughter may now be classified as an adult, if she not on a government approved apprentice scheme, is no longer in full-time education, or is not a full-time college or university student. This benefit which you may have previously received will be lost. With regards to your council rent, your daughter will now be classed as a non-dependent, therefore she will be see as contributing to your household income, so your housing benefit may be adjusted accordingly. You can check your benefit entitlement, using the benefits calculator via the Turn2Us website here. I hope this helps.

Nina 07/09/2015 at 8:54 am

I claim job seekers my 19 yr old has just startred working 12 hrs a week and council say i have to contribute to rent and council tax for her is this right i dont child benefit or ctcredits for her now

laux3 22/08/2015 at 7:07 am

Hello, I work 30 hours a week, have a 1 year old son & I also go to college 1 day a week. My relationship has fallen apart and I'm in the process of organising to move out. I'm afraid even with working 30+ hours a week that I won't be able to afford it. Is there any benefits I'd be entitled to for extra help with rent etc? Thank you

esshort 11/08/2015 at 11:04 pm

Hi I'm a single mum with a 4 year old still living with my parents I work 30 hours a week I would like to rent somewhere would like to know if I get any help with rent as I been told by people I work to many hours witch I feel is silly if they want people working full time

AWorkingMum Editor 03/08/2015 at 2:50 pm

@emerald - I'm afraid the Government's objective is to get as many people off benefits and in to work, so that less people are reliant upon them. While this is a good move for people who have abused them, it does mean that those in genuine need will also be penalised. I can only suggest you put in motion thoughts that you may have to return to the workplace if you are deemed fit to work. This may mean talking to your GP to see whether there is any treatment for your social phobia which may alleviate your symptoms, while also looking for work that may suit your physical disabilities. I have included a link: 'help with moving from benefits to work' here which may help.

emerald 01/08/2015 at 1:54 am

Hi im single mum to two kids aged 17 and 16 i receive esa.panicking as been out of work a long time due to health and mental problemsplus father dying.im stressed everyday as when my money stops what will i live on for kids sake,even in few years theyre working,im single for long time.no support from anyone,alone,help?so sick of the stress of this.cause worried if i come off esa and as i suffer from social phobia too i cant take on more stressbut need money.

AWorkingMum Editor 27/07/2015 at 2:13 pm

@Christyv - if you are looking for benefit help you can do so via the Turn2Us whichPlease also see Housing Rights and Options leaflet via whichI hope this helps.

Christyv 25/07/2015 at 2:46 am

Hi. I am a single mum of an 8month old and currently pregnant with my second child. I am working full time at the moment but will go part time after second baby is born. I live alone in a rented property which is a studio flat so i am trying to find sth bigger for us. Is there any help i could receive? Many thanks.

trinity 05/07/2015 at 6:22 pm

I work 3 days a week as a primary teacher and have 3 children under 6.am trying to see what I would be entitled to after my marriage ends.my husband earns 30k a year

AWorkingMum Editor 25/06/2015 at 9:53 am

@Loo - I have included the link to the NUS article: I’m a single student parent – what extra higher education funding can I get? here. I hope this helps.

Loo 23/06/2015 at 12:03 am

Hi, I'm a single mum and currently work 24 hours a week. I hate my job, would love to go to college a few days a week to help achieve a better life, is there funding available for this? Mums working and college?

Many thanks

AWorkingMum Editor 22/05/2015 at 2:25 pm

@July - I assume you may have seen the Public Funds document here which gives you the all the details of what you are entitled to. I can only suggest contacting Turn to Us, here which may help.

July 22/05/2015 at 5:59 am

I'm a single mother of two children, 5th and six months. I have got a leave to remain visa which doesn't allows me to receive public funds. I'm working hard but still struggling with child care cost and other expenses. Is there any help I can receive? Thanks

AWorkingMum Editor 07/05/2015 at 2:11 pm

@yummymummyof2 - I have directed you to the website Turn to Us via the link here which should tell you what benefits you are eligible for.

yummymummyof2 06/05/2015 at 9:45 pm

Hi I'm 31 n ready to go back to work I have a nearly 4 year old n nearly 3 year old what help will I get if I do 22 hours a wk at the min I get my girls money n income support ?x

AWorkingMum Editor 30/04/2015 at 10:40 am

@meme - if your benefits are being cut, you should have been sent a letter to explain why. Given your lack of information I cannot answer this question, therefore if you do not know the reason why, you need to get in touch with to your benefits office directly. I hope this helps.

meme 27/04/2015 at 2:24 pm

I am a disabled lone parent with 2 children my youngest turned seven and my benefits have been cut loosing £100 a week

meme 27/04/2015 at 2:21 pm

I have 2 children the youngest turn .7 why is my money being cut £100 a week

AWorkingMum Editor 20/04/2015 at 1:40 pm

@blubanana - try the website TurntoUs, whichits benefits calculator can tell you if you could be missing out on financial help available to you. I hope this helps.

blubanana 17/04/2015 at 10:00 pm

I am a single mom working 20hrs a week - my biggest cost is childcare. I pay almost £600 a month. I get some help from the childcare element of tax credits, is there anything else that could help reduce this? Thanks in advance! ?

Julies 02/04/2015 at 9:17 pm

Hi I have 1 year old girl I work 16 hours week can I still get free dental treatment and free medication

Julies 02/04/2015 at 9:13 pm

Hi I work 16hours week can I still get free dental treatment and free medication

Cath35 01/04/2015 at 8:43 pm

Hi, I'm a single mum to a 15 year old. I currently work 20 hours aweek. I'm wondering will I be any better off if I get a second part time job? Thanks

AWorkingMum Editor 27/03/2015 at 12:33 pm

@Dems - you can work out what you would be entitled to whichI hope this helps.

Dems 26/03/2015 at 7:26 pm

I have a 4 year old and I need to work I want to do a nursery apprentice but that would mean I have to do full time will my bennifits still get taken away ?

AWorkingMum Editor 05/03/2015 at 10:22 am

@Ollie - I have included a link to Turn To Us here which can help you with benefits you should be entitled to if you decide not to go back to work. On another note it doesn't sound as though the place you are living in is the sort of place you want to bring up a baby. I have included an additional link from Shelter here. If conditions in your home are bad, they could put your or your childs health at risk. Therefore, in situations like these, the environmental health department of your local council may be able to help.

Ollie 05/03/2015 at 3:39 am

I am currently working, earning 18000 a year after tax. I am pregnant and my partner doesnt work, though he will definitely be in the picture.
We currently live in a shared house, its not suitable for a baby; lack of space, a lot of mould ect. And the bathroom ceiling is severly bowed, the fan leaks, the shower leaks to the kitchen when in use...
What help could i expect? After maternity i doubt i will go back to work, but i cannot bring a baby home to this house. Me and partner also have 2 dogs, which makes trying to find somewhere to rent extremely hard.

Caz Editor 04/03/2015 at 3:20 pm

@Wayne - you would have to calculate your wages, you don't say what salary you would be on working full-time. I'd ring tax credits up and ask directly.

Wayne Shelley 02/03/2015 at 10:19 pm

Hi, im a lone parent with 2 children age 13yrs and 15yrs, I dont need childcare, I work parttime at the moment 22hr a week and get around £200 a week working tax, I ve been offered full time hours of 44hrs a week, would I be better off taking the full time position? Thanks guys.

sam 08/02/2015 at 10:19 pm

Hi I work 16 hours and have a 6 &7 year old kids
Im a single mother
I receive tax credit and working tax credit
I live with my sister and mum who I pay rent to for over 7 years but
we haven't been getting along and now they have told me to move out.
I very stress and worried. I've got 6 day left to leave
i don't know where to go.
Or even if I'm will get any help with housing or rent please help me

julipooli 03/01/2015 at 3:57 pm

hi i have been offered a job working 38.5 hours a week in nursing home but they do not offer part time just full time ( which are 12 hour long day shifts- I am not really happy with that and there is no room for negotiation from the company, but i need a job). I am currently on jobseekers, receive housing and council tax i desperately want to get back into work after being made redundant 4 years ago i am a single mu of a 13 year old. Will i loose any benefits and or gain any benefits.

Nicky Editor 26/11/2014 at 3:00 pm

@Lynslou - it really is tough for mothers, it's all down to the childcare issue. We can easily pay up to £800 per month. it is getting better with the government launching tax-free childcare in autumn 2015. If you have a salary of 26K which is average, around 8K of that would go on childcare, so it means you would bring home around 18K working full-time, it doesn't really stack up does it when you'd have to work an extra two days per week for 3K per annum.

lynslou 26/11/2014 at 2:44 am

hi, im looking to increase my hours at work as my boss really wants me back full time, i currently work 3 days per week at 15000 per annum ive been in my job 10 years with no salary increase for the last 5 years, not that thats the problem as being a lone parent i get help for child care etc from the government. my issue is that my boss dosent seem to want to pay more than 26/27 thousand per annum and i just cant make the figures inc government help calculate to cover my living, childcare, travel etc. am i missing something ?!?!?? to be honest if i was to go back full time id like to be able to afford not to have to claim government help, can you advise what my salary per annum would have to be without benefits ? im i bit lost as ive had baby brain for the last 5 years where earnings are concerned ! im an offic manager/ jack of all trades !!! with 10 years experience...... lost would be a shorter answer lol

KellBell 12/11/2014 at 8:44 am

Hi there

I am a single parent and employed through an agency, i am due to take 3 weeks holiday but this will be unpaid. Will i be entitled to any help from anywhere to cover these 3 weeks as i will have no income?

bell 11/11/2014 at 7:48 pm

PLEASE help...if my council rent is £80 a week & i earn £500 a month..does any 1 know how
much i would get in housing benefits? i have a 5 year old..

Kath 05/11/2014 at 9:10 am

Hi.i work 22hours will I be able to get any help.i have a 20month old son.&a single parent.

shrops 20/10/2014 at 10:47 pm

you know what winds me up i work 17 hours , single mum of 5 and i have to pay full council tax ect .... while the people on benefits who dont want to work, are loving there big tv`s ,game consoles, and sitting on there back side all day and im the one worse off than makes me sick .....

Miss Ellie 20/10/2014 at 9:33 pm

Hi everyone, need some advice?. going back to work in three weeks time, will it be better to work 28hrs or 37hrs. I lost my working tax credits because work didn't pay me the last three months of my maternity leave for I took the whole year of.I am a single parent trying to do my best.I receive tax credits at the moment and I am also trying to find registered child minder as well?.
What is the best way to go

Sam 19/10/2014 at 9:58 am

Hi their I am looking for advice, I am a 27 year old single parent of 4 haven't really had the chance to work due to having my children and taken care of my mother. I want to be a carer and have no qualifications plus I need flexible hours due to my children being young, but I am worried to leave benefits incase I dont have enough money to support my home and children, but I really want to go out and finally make something of my life for my self and them can anyone help me out on were I would stand with this is it worth my time while kids are young?

Anonymous 13/10/2014 at 8:52 pm

Hi.
I am just wondering something. If I was to go from working part time to doing a full time apprenticeship what benifits I would be entitled to and at what rAte?
I am 22, a single parent wanting to futher my career so to give my 3 year old and myself a better life. The job I have currently is low paying I reciebe working tax credits & child benifit and part payment of housing benifit.
What would change if I was to start this? & would I end up struggling futher with money if I did change?

will Editor 01/10/2014 at 10:08 am

@pauline, if you only work 15 hours per week then you won't be entitled to claim any benefits. You need to work 16 hours per week before you will be entitled to anything.

Pauline 01/10/2014 at 9:54 am

I am a single parent and at the moment i am working at a new job which i found out its target driven and i am finding it stressful, anyway that job is 20 hours per week and i am paying for transport to get to and from work , and now ive been offered a job closer to me and within walking distance but its only 15 hours what would i be entitled to

1988 Editor 10/09/2014 at 11:48 am

@amy, how old are you? £5 an hour is below the national minimum wage for people 21 and over so to offer employment at this rate is illegal.

amy 10/09/2014 at 11:00 am

i'm just wondering can any one help me i have been offered a job of 44 hours a week but only at £5 an hour would i be entitled to anything as i really want to get back into work but don't want to be worse off. I am a single parent with a 2 year old

Pen 08/09/2014 at 12:45 pm

Hello ,I've started work I'm doing 16hrs and I've lost money ,I get child benefits , child tax credits and working tax credits and couple of months ago I payed a deposit for a holiday for my son in secondary school his 15 yrs old and I was wondering if there is any help out there to help ,thank you .

jennychipmunk 06/09/2014 at 9:48 am

i am a single parent working 16hrs a week for minimum wage i have a 17yr old in college on approved schene and getting working and child tax credits, is my daughter allowed to get a part time job?

Tasmay 05/09/2014 at 9:13 pm

Hi Im a single parent working 16 hours a week on minimum wage and my son wants to get a part time job he is 17 and in full time education he will be working 10 hours a week on minimum wage will this effect any of my benifits I get?
Many thanks
Natasha maybe

nicky 07/08/2014 at 7:34 am

Hi to all, you all doing well know how you all feeling, feeling same mortgage no help low income red letters through the door etc.. Pay mortgage council tax the rest phone Welldone to the person doing apprentaship admire you when you pass you will sit back and smile the worry will have been worth it x go for 2 bed flat until you on your feet keep smiling all no matter what ! :-)

Shannell Howe 06/08/2014 at 11:43 am

Thank you for the advice guys :-) very much appreciated

AWorkingMum Editor 28/07/2014 at 11:58 am

@Shannise, It depends how much you are earning. You could be entitled to working tax credits as well as the childcare element of tax credits if you use an approved childcare provider for your 6 year old. You may also qualify for housing benefit and council tax reduction - single person occupancy allows for a 25% reduction in council tax.

shannise 27/07/2014 at 3:37 pm

I work 22.5 hours a week and have 2 children- 6 year old and 16 year old (staying in school to complete A-Levels), my rent is £660 per calendar month, am I entitled to any help with my rent etc as I am unable to afford on my sole wage and have recently separated.

AWorkingMum Editor 17/07/2014 at 2:05 pm

@Shantie, If you work over 16 hours a week you will be entitled to claim working tax credit and the childcare element of tax credit. You may also qualify for housing benefit. However, both benefits depend on how much you earn. You can go online and use the tax credit and housing benefit calculator to help give you an idea of how much you might get.

shantie 16/07/2014 at 3:52 pm

hi i am a single parent, my daughter is 1 and a half. i want to start working just a few hours a week but would like to know what i can claim. im struggling financially at the moment and wanted a few hours work to help. my rent is 525 a month so i cant get a part time full time job as i wouldnt afford the cost of living and also childcare. i was hoping someone could give me some information on what i can claim and how many hours i can do

Nelita 27/06/2014 at 2:26 pm

Im single mother with an8years old girl I receive child benefit and child tax credit, I,ve start work 16 hours week, about 120 .00 week, I have to pay rent 54.10 weekly plus extra rom14.59 and council tax 74.00 monthly. I think is a bit to much, nothing to my and little girl things,would you tell me if it is right or not,? Thank you

Joe 07/06/2014 at 2:32 am

Hi,
My son is about to start school. I am a single mum about to change my job around schooling hours. The job will psy me £12000 or £12500 per annum. Whst benefit am I entitled to? Any calculater I have used asks my last years salary which was £18, 800. But I will no longer be taking thst home now? My mortgage alone is £800 per month. Can you please help with advice? Am really concerned how I will live?

cdm 04/04/2014 at 7:02 pm

hi, can anyone help me. I am a single dad, my son is 12. At the moment he lives with my mother in law but they are moving abroad so my son will move in with me. there are so many changes I will have to make and it is worrying me that I won't have enough money coming in to keep us afloat. I will have to change jobs so I am at home more, which will mean less money. What, if any, benefits would I be entitled to.

MAND 19/03/2014 at 6:24 pm

I am a fulltime working single mum I am currently receiving childcare tax credits towards my nursery costs. I am looking at employing a au pair and when my eldest is in school this is to help take and collect my children from nursery can I claim tax credits for this cost of my childcare or only for the nursery.

daisy 15/01/2014 at 11:08 pm

I live with my partner and he gets child tax credits I used to get maternity pay but it stopped begin in Jan could I get help benefit

SHELL 24/11/2013 at 9:38 pm

hi im a single parent with a 17 year old daughter who is at college she is about to change colleges were she will be able to live on campus . I work 36rs a week I get child tax and working tax credit will I be able to get help with her boarding fees , it is the nearest college that does the course she is takeing and would be to far for her to travel daily,

sarah-Jessesmummy 06/10/2013 at 10:18 pm

Hi could you be able to tell me exactly how much benefits I will receive. When working 16 hours a week and being a single mum to a 1 year old. I already have child tax and child benefit. My rent is 475 per calendar month. How much help with my rent and council taxt am I entitled to and how much working tax am I entitled to as well. do I also get child care vouchers also... sorry for asking so much I'm new to being a working parent. Hope you can help... thank you

Lisa G 31/08/2013 at 8:24 am

Hi I am a single working mum and my daughter is now 11 years old and about to start secondary school. My daughters father has recently taken early redundancy from his employer and has informed me that he will no longer be able to pay me child maintenance and will not be in a position to do so for the next 5 years as he plans to study. Even though I work full time 36hrs a week I am struggling to make ends meet and without his contribution to his daughter's up brining it will only get tougher for us. Is there any benefits I may be entitled to now that I will be supporting our daughter alone?

unlucky in love 07/08/2013 at 6:41 am

im working 30hrs a week and my babys dad looks after hi , but im on the verge of leaving him so I wont have anyone to look after him I really don't kn what to do as I cant affors rent and putting the baby in nursery but I don't want to give up work any suggestions what I can do as im at my wits end?

Tinkerbelle 10/07/2013 at 3:59 pm

I'm. On. disability with a last son at home in colehe last 2 yrs an I receive tax cred an child Ben. Total 80 per week. He has jus landed a job today can start soon how wil this affect my rent ad I wil drop 80 per week any one no ???? Worried O

di 31/05/2013 at 2:58 pm

I am single and with one child and my work wont change my hours and I have no childcare what can I do to earn money and look after my child

Wimmy 31/03/2013 at 11:50 pm

I am a single parent of a 14 month old girl, I work 18.30 hrs per week, I receive child benefit, tax credits and working tax credit, but I am still struggling financially as I have a mortgage, is there any other benefits or support that I may be entitled to. Thank you

Nik 01/12/2012 at 12:18 am

Am a single mum(widow) with 2 children, my children are still in Africa while am here on work permit. I work full time and pay my tax and other bill, am I entitled to child tax credit as I still care for my children 100%.

Jess 15/10/2012 at 8:53 am

I am a 22 year old single mother with a 2 yr old and a baby due in the next 2 weeks! My child goes to nursery as I was working 16 hours before I left for maternity. In re last month they changed my hours to 16hrs one week 15 the next and then back to 16 hours n then the week after 15. My question is will I lose my maternity pay ad my nursery fees? I'm worried now. Any advice would be so helpful. Jess

Haz 10/09/2012 at 11:25 pm

I am a single mum, aged 22 with a 2 year old daughter. I am doing an apprenticeship in electrical engineering and work 4 days a week 7.30am-4.15pm plus 1 day at college 9am till 8.30pm. I recently broke up with my boyfriend and moved in with my mum but have to move out in the next month. I am worried of being homeless, and being able to keep my job, apprenticeship pay is £156 per week and i don't know what to do to be able to afford all this. I don't know how to go about childcare because my mum has decided she cant look after her. Im confused and scared for my daughter. Any advice?

Sacha06 05/09/2012 at 1:34 pm

I am going through a marriage breakup and have a 3 year old daughter. I work full time (44hrs) and would like to know the benefits that i will be entitled to as my Daughter is in Nursery. I currently receive Child benefit £80 a month. Any advice is great as this is a new world to me!

duchess 23/08/2012 at 8:42 pm

Im 54yrs old in full employment I look after 15yr old daughter & 80 yr old father
should I be taxed as single person allowance

Leboza 19/07/2012 at 8:23 pm

I am a single mum of a six months old boy who is disable. I need a house and some help to look after my son. Currently in full employment

sam 14/07/2012 at 4:27 pm

Hi im a working single mum I work 32 hours a week. im going through a divorce and hav a 3 year old daughter. im also a home owner. am I entitled to any benefits apart from child and working tax credits. thank you.

Rhea 07/07/2012 at 12:10 am

Hi I just want ask some question.. Me and my husband have problems..and is gone worse.i have doughter she's 4 year old.im not working.my husband said he's gona live seprete.. His looking for place.we r private tanets pay £800. Rent.im so stress how I'm gona pay rent and bills.please can somebody give advice where should i go? Or which benefits I can get? I have no family here. Thanks

Ms Honey Editor 15/06/2012 at 10:30 am

@ Natalie, You can only get a sure start maternity grant if you have no other children under 16 in your family, as your son is under 16 you won't be entitled to it. Your son is also not entitled to free school meals as you are entitled to working tax credit. Once your child is born you will have to ring the hmrc and update your tax credit claim. You can find more details about this info on the direct. gov website.

Natalie 15/06/2012 at 7:37 am

I'm a single parent working 16 hours a week, I recieve working tax, child tax, child benefit, housing and council tax benefit. My home is private renting and I pregnant with my second child I am entitled to free school meals my son is in year 1.How do I go about my second child with tax credits as I have to got back to work after my leave and will I be entitled to the sure start maternaty grant again.Many Thanks for your help.

Nid 11/06/2012 at 1:00 pm

I work 12 hours a week and am 5 months pregnant and single. Please tell me if there is anything that i am entitled to that would help me out. Many thanks

becky 07/06/2012 at 2:39 pm

im a single parent with a young child and no job, i recieve tax credits, child benifit and income suport, i live on my own in a private rent house and my rent costs £15/week, i have no support from the childs father at'll and im finding it really hard to survive on the benifits im geting.. Am i entitled to any other help?

Charlie 03/06/2012 at 4:01 pm

I am a single patent with two children and work 32 hours a week, am I entitled to any housing benefits?

yan 24/04/2012 at 10:47 pm

I am a single with two kids, I worked less than 16 hour. could you let me to know am i allow get any holiday, please.

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