Income support

If you’re under Pension Credit qualifying age and living on a low income, you could benefit from Income Support.

What is Income Support?

Income Support is a benefit to help people on a low income. If you’re unable to work or don't work many hours, this benefit could help to top up your income.

How much money could I get from Income Support?

You could get up to:

• £74.35 a week if you’re single
• £116.80 a week if you’re a couple

But the amount you get may vary depending on your circumstances. For example you may get more money if you're disabled.

Am I eligible to claim Income Support?

You may be able to claim Income Support if you can say yes to all of the following:

• Are you below the age you can claim Pension Credit?
• Are you a carer, or a lone parent or grandparent looking after a child younger than 5?
• Are you on a low income?
• Do you have less than £16,000 in savings?
• Do you work fewer than 16 hours a week?
• If you have a partner, do they work fewer than 24 hours a week?

What counts as a low income?

When you apply for Income Support, your income, savings and circumstances will be taken into account. What counts as a low income will depend on your individual situation.

If you’re not sure whether you’re eligible, you could use our benefits calculator to find out:

How do I claim Income Support?

To claim contact your local Social Security or Jobs & Benefits office.

Or download an application form from NI Direct, print, complete and take it to the office noted the form, or your local Social Security or Jobs & Benefits office.

Read more on the NI Direct website.