Single or widowed
parents
Raising a child or children on your own is not only exhausting but can be financially challenging. If you’re on your own you could be entitled to extra support so make sure you find out what help you can get for your own personal circumstances.
Single parents
When your relationship breaks down you may be faced with a lot of changes, your finances being one of them. You could be entitled to a 25% discount on your Council Tax bill, and If you're working, find out if your Tax Credits claim is affected, ensure you make your claim straight away however, as claims cannot be backdated.
Separated or divorced parents may be able to claim Child Maintenance from the absent parent of their child or children. More often than not, you’ll come to an agreement privately about this. However, the Child Support Agency (CSA) may need to get involved. They will calculate and collect Child Maintenance from parents who do not live with their children. Even if you do come to a private agreement there's a handy calculator on the website that gives you an idea of how much they may award if you need them.
Bereaved parents
Widowed parents who live alone may be able to claim Widowed Parent’s Allowance of up to £97.65 a week. The amount can be reduced depending on other benefits that you might be claiming such as Income Support. To claim you need to contact your local
Jobcentre Plus or you can download a form from their website.