Benefits

We can provide advice on a range of benefit issues. You also find out information on benefits for carers, those with disabilities, being out of work, bereavement, housing, and more.

Freephone advice helpline

0800 915 4604

Email us for advice

advice@adviceni.net

For non-advice-related queries, email:

comms@adviceni.net

  • Benefit Changes

    A number of changes have been introduced under the government’s Welfare Reform programme, including the replacement of a number of legacy benefits. There have also been a number of changes to the way the benefit system is managed.

  • Bereavement Benefits

    Bereavement benefits provide support with meeting the costs related to the death of a close relative or friend.

  • Carers Benefits

    Carer’s benefits are for the carer in recognition of their caring role and the impact this has on their lives. The person who is being cared for may be entitled to disability benefits.

  • Disability Benefits

    Disability benefits are designed to support disabled people with extra costs arising from their disability. As these are not income-replacement benefits they are not means-tested, although a medical assessment may be required.

  • Extra Financial Support

    The Finance Support Service provides support to anyone living in Northern Ireland that needs short-term financial help.

  • Historical Institutional Abuse (HIA)

    Advice NI have been working with Survivors of Historical Institutional Abuse since 2013.

  • Housing Costs

    New claims for core housing costs (rent and service charges) must now be made as part of a claim for Universal Credit (UC). However, as UC does not include an amount in respect of rates a separate claim for Rate Rebate is required.

  • Legacy Benefits

    Due to the roll-out of Universal Credit (UC) it is no longer possible to submit a new claim for any of these benefits. However, many claimants will remain on these benefits until they reach a natural migration point or the Department for Communities (DfC) commences the managed migration programme.

  • Out of Work Benefits

    If you are looking for work or you are unable to work due to a health condition or caring responsibilities, the following benefits provide a degree of income protection.

  • Retirement benefits

    The welfare system is different for those who have reached State Pension age and there are certain benefits that are exclusively available to retired or older people.

  • Tax Credits

    Tax Credits are means-tested benefits for workers or families on a low income. They are administered and paid by Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

  • Universal Credit

    Universal Credit is a payment for people who are on a low income or out of work. It includes support for the cost of housing, children and childcare, and financial support for people with disabilities, carers and people too ill to work.