There's a limit to the total amount of benefit you can claim when you're of working age - this is known as the benefit cap. The level of the cap is set by the government. The government's benefit cap page explains:
- When you're not affected
- When the benefit cap affects your Universal Credit payments
- Help if you're affected by the benefit cap
- Benefit cap amounts
If the benefit cap affects you, your Housing Benefit or Universal Credit will be reduced so that your weekly income is no higher than the current cap levels.
Call the benefit cap helpline for advice if you, your partner or any children you're responsible for receive one or more benefits unaffected by the cap, and you think the cap shouldn't apply to you.
Extra help if you're struggling to cope financially
If the benefit cap affects you and you're finding it difficult to cope financially, we may be able to help you in the short term.
You may be able to apply for a:
- Discretionary Housing Payment
- Council Tax Support
- Discretionary Council Tax Reduction
- other local support
Use our benefits calculator to check you're getting all the support you can.
Contact Jobcentre Plus to make an appointment to see a work coach.
If you're struggling advice and support is available. If you're a council tenant, you can speak to your Housing Management Officer.
Also see
Benefits appointments
Contact us for an appointment to get benefits advice in person at West Offices.