Benefits

The Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has today announced a range of new tax, benefits and energy measures in his Budget. But, as MoneySavingExpert.com founder Martin Lewis points out, income tax thresholds will remain frozen – meaning millions will be pulled into paying more tax through a process known as 'fiscal drag'. Below we round up the key announcements and you can also watch Martin's instant reaction.

Millions more households on low incomes may now be able to get Virgin Media's discounted broadband social tariffs, as the provider has expanded the list of qualifying benefits and made it easier to sign up. Below we explain who's eligible for the cheaper deals, how they compare and how to get them.

Scottish households on certain benefits can get £150 off their energy bills under the Warm Home Discount scheme – but, unlike in England and Wales, many in Scotland still need to apply. Yet payments are made on a first come, first served basis and some suppliers are starting to close their schemes – so apply as soon as possible to ensure you don't miss out.

Tens of thousands of financially vulnerable people are likely slipping through eligibility cracks in the £150 Warm Home Discount support scheme, according to MoneySavingExpert.com (MSE). After direct contact between MSE founder Martin Lewis and energy secretary Grant Shapps, the minister has promised he will look into the complaints.

Millions of struggling households will receive additional 'cost of living' payments in 2023 and 2024, with the rough payment dates now confirmed by the Government. Here's everything we know about these cost of living payments - and what to do if you've still not received your 2022 support.  

Some claiming Personal Independence Payments (PIP) say they have yet to receive their money for this month, leaving many struggling for cash ahead of Christmas. The disability payments were due to be paid on Monday (5 December).

Over a million people who claim tax credits will get their second cost of living payment from today (23 November). Below we breakdown who's eligible and how you'll be paid, plus what to do if you don't receive your payment but think you should have. 

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has today (17 November) announced tax changes, state pension rises and further cost of living help. The measures come as part of today's Autumn Statement, which also contains major changes to the Government's energy support package. Below we analyse what's changing – you can also watch MoneySavingExpert.com founder Martin Lewis's instant reaction.

If you live in Scotland and claim certain means-tested benefits, and you have children under 16, you can now claim £25 a week per child in 'Scottish child payment'. The benefit has today been extended to reach more families, while the amount you can claim has also been boosted. Over 400,000 children could now be eligible. 

Virgin Media has cut the cost of its 'Essential' broadband tariff for households on universal credit, from £15 a month to £12.50 a month – making it the cheapest social tariff on the market. The price drop is effective immediately for both new and existing customers. The provider has also launched a new faster plan, available from today (10 November), which costs £20 a month.