A benefit designed to assist with your basic living expenses by adding to your income to a level set by Government.

Your payment of National Insurance contributions to qualify is not necessary; however income, savings and capital will be taken into account. It is a tax-free benefit.

If you qualify for Income Support, you may also claim Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit. It is possible to qualify for these benefits whilst not being entitled to Income Support. There are a variety of circumstances in which these benefits can be paid whether you are a homeowner, tenant, or living with family and friends etc.

Your entitlement to Income Support is dependant on a variety of rules covering your level of savings, your income, and the amount of hours you or your partner works. Certain assets will not be taken into account, such as any home you own and live in, and/or a partner or relative lives in. Other assets will be taken into account such as investment bonds, premium bonds etc.

The Benefits Agency will assess the amount of money you need to live on each week, and deduct from your income any adjustments for your savings. Income Support will then meet any shortfall.

If you are disabled or have a carer, your entitlement may be above the statutory amount. Adjustments may be made to your Income Support depending on your circumstances. For instance, if you reside in a home not your own, or if you are hospitalised or residing in a residential or nursing home.

Click here to access the Pension Service website where you may find advice on any benefits to which you may be entitled. By selecting this link you will leave the Care Advice Bureau site. Care Advice Bureau Ltd accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of the information contained within the linked site.

Click here for more information about Free Nursing Care.