Work Benefits

A controversial contractor hired by HM Revenue & Customs to cut tax credit fraud won't have its contract extended beyond May 2017 after massive criticism of its performance and claims hundreds have had their tax credits wrongly stopped.

Disability and carers benefits are likely to rise by just 1.2% next April after it was revealed yesterday that inflation had fallen to its lowest level for five years.

Disability and carers' benefits and the additional state pension will rise by 2.7% in April 2014 – but other benefits will see just a 1% rise, Chancellor George Osborne said in today's Autumn Statement.

Most people aged 60 or over can get help towards their energy costs, which can be a vital lifeline for many as winter draws nearer and heating costs rise.

The Government is considering enforcing tougher sanctions for disabled and sickness benefit claimants who refuse to take steps to get back into the workplace.