Coronavirus and Benefits

Some temporary changes have been made to the benefits system because of Coronavirus (COVID-19)

To help you understand these changes we've put together some questions and answers that our Helpline has been asked, as well as where you can go for further information.

Age Scotland's helpline
Benefits questions and answers
Where can I get more information?

Age Scotland's helpline

The Age Scotland Helpline

The Age Scotland helpline is a free, confidential phone service for older people, their carers and families in Scotland. Our team provide information, friendship and advice. Our helpline is free to call and available Monday - Friday 9-5pm. Call us today on 0800 12 44 222.

Benefits questions and answers

Do I have to go into an office to make a benefit claim?

What should I do if I already get housing benefit or tax credits?

I am due to go to a medical appointment for a benefit claim

How can I claim Pension Credit?

What is State Pension age?

I need emergency help

I claim carers allowance – what happens if I cannot provide the care I normally do?

Is there any extra money for carers?

The Department for Work and Pensions was going to review my claim. What will happen?

What if my circumstances change?

My Attendance Allowance award is due to end soon what should I do?

Can I get help or more help to pay my rent?

If you are working age you may be able to get help with your rent through Universal Credit If you (and your partner if you have one) are pension age you be entitled to housing benefit to help pay your rent to a council, housing association or private landlord. The amount of help you can receive towards your rent for a private tenancy increased on 1^st April 2020.

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Can I get help to pay my mortgage?

Can I get help with council tax?

Can I get help to pay for a funeral?

I am self-employed and my income has dropped what can I claim?

I’ve lost my job or have reduced hours what can I claim?

I am self-isolating or shielding because of coronavirus and cannot work; what can I claim?

In Scotland, shielding will pause on 1 August. This means that you won't need to follow separate shielding guidance and can follow the same guidance as the rest of Scotland.

You will no longer be able to claim Statutory Sick Pay for shielding from 1 August. The Scottish Government expect that vast majority of people who have been asked to shield will be able to return to work from this date.

If you feel it will be difficult for you to return to work, you should speak to your employer to discuss whether you can work from home, they can make additional adjustments, or they will allow you to take leave.

If you feel you cannot return to work safely at all, you should discuss your fitness for work with your GP or specialist care provider. You may be able to claim a disability-related benefit if you are unable to work in the longer term due to ill health.