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?

Jobcentres are open for essential appointments and support, for example if you need to make a claim but are not able to do so by telephone or online.

You only need to go to an appointment at the Jobcentre if you are specifically told to. The DWP will let you know by telephone, and if you are claiming Universal Credit, a message will also be put on your journal.

You will need to wear a face covering to attend an appointment, and follow physical distancing and hygiene rules carefully.

Face to face assessments for disability benefits are suspended. If you make a new claim, you may have a paper-based or telephone assessment.

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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 may 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 April 2020.

The Scottish Government have launched a Tenant Hardship Loan Fund, designed to help people who have had their finances or employment impacted by the coronavirus pandemic, who do not have other means of housing support.

Click here for more information about Tenant Hardship Loans and to make an application.

Loans will be available for social and private tenants, up to a maximum of nine months’ rent costs. The arrears must have arisen since 1 January 2020. The loan amount can include up to three months of future rent payments as part of the nine-month total.

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Can I get help to pay my mortgage?

If you receive a means tested benefit including Universal Credit and Pension Credit you may qualify for a loan to help with your mortgage payments. The help can start as soon as you claim Pension Credit, after 9 consecutive Universal Credit payments or after you have claimed any other qualifying benefit for 39 consecutive weeks.

If you are struggling due to coronavirus, you can apply for a mortgage repayment holiday of up to 6 months. Speak to your lender for details, or visit our Coronavirus and Housing page for more information. You must apply before 31 March 2021.

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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?

If you (and your partner if you have one) are over State Pension age you may be able to claim Pension Credit. If you need to claim Universal Credit or already claim Tax Credits see the Child Poverty Action group guide to benefits for self-employed people here.

If you are a self-employed individual or member of a partnership, you may be eligible for support from the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme. Click here to find out more information about the scheme.

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

Where can I get more information?

You can call Age Scotland's helpline on 0800 12 44 222. The below organisations also have useful information and advice on their websites.

Last updated: Dec 09 2020

Money Matters

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

The Age Scotland Helpline

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?

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?

Where can I get more information?

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