DWP Universal Credit Financial Boost: With the upcoming Budget cuts from the Labour Party government, Universal Credit claimants can still take advantage of 14 freebies and discounts in March 2024. These benefits help cover energy bills, childcare, travel costs, and more.
Here’s a complete list of what you can claim and how to apply before any further cuts come into effect.
1. Warm Home Discount – £150 Off Energy Bills
- The Warm Home Discount Scheme provides a £150 one-off discount on electricity bills.
- Prepayment customers receive a top-up voucher.
- Dual-fuel customers can request the discount be applied to gas bills instead.
- Deadline: Contact the scheme before February 28 if you haven’t received your letter.
Apply via your energy supplier or GOV.UK.
2. Household Support Fund – Financial Help for Bills
- Offers free financial support for residents struggling with energy, food, and water bills.
- No repayment required, and it won’t affect your benefits.
- One claim per household every 3 months.
Check eligibility and apply via your local council.
3. Energy Company Obligation (ECO) Scheme – Free Boiler & Insulation
- £1,000s in grants available for home insulation and boiler upgrades.
- Replaces old electric heaters with energy-efficient ones for free.
- Eligibility: Low-income households or Universal Credit claimants.
Apply through your energy provider.
4. Universal Credit Childcare Costs – Up to £1,739.37 Per Month
- Reimburses up to 85% of registered childcare costs.
- Monthly cap:
- £1,014.63 for one child
- £1,739.37 for two or more children
- Upfront childcare costs may be covered—speak to your work coach.
Upload proof of childcare costs to your UC account to claim.
5. JobCentre Plus Travel Discount Card – 50% Off Public Transport
- Universal Credit claimants can get a JobCentre Plus Travel Discount Card.
- Cuts travel costs by 50% on trains and buses.
- Accepted by all train operators in England, Scotland, and Wales.
Apply at your local JobCentre.
6. Healthy Start Vouchers – Worth £442 Per Year
- Available for:
- Pregnant women (10+ weeks)
- Parents with children under 4 years old
- Families earning £408 or less per month
- Helps buy milk, fresh food, and vitamins.
Apply online via the NHS Healthy Start website.
7. Free NHS Prescriptions – Worth £9.90 Each
- Universal Credit claimants may be eligible for free prescriptions.
- Eligibility depends on take-home pay in the last assessment period.
- If eligible, tick box ‘U’ on the prescription form.
Check with your pharmacist or the NHS website.
8. Free NHS Eye Tests & Optical Vouchers – Up to £30
- Free NHS eye tests available for Universal Credit claimants.
- Optical vouchers help cover the cost of glasses or contact lenses.
- Refunds available if you’ve already paid—keep your receipt.
Visit the NHS website to apply.
9. Discounted Water Bills – Up to £1,000 Per Year
- WaterSure Scheme caps water bills for those on Universal Credit.
- Requires a water meter.
Apply through your water provider.
10. Social Tariffs for Broadband & Mobile – Save £227.88 Per Year
- Universal Credit claimants can get discounted broadband and phone packages.
- Some providers call them “essential” or “basic” broadband plans.
- Helps cut bills amid the cost-of-living crisis.
Check offers with your broadband provider.
11. Sure Start Maternity Grant – £500 One-Off Payment
- One-time £500 grant to help with baby expenses.
- Available if you receive Universal Credit or other benefits.
- No repayment required.
Apply by filling out form SF100 (Sure Start) on GOV.UK.
12. Help to Save – Get Up to £1,200 Bonus
- Special savings account for low-income earners.
- Save between £1-£50 per month.
- Earn a 50% bonus after two and four years—up to £1,200 free cash.
Open an account via GOV.UK.
13. Free School Meals – Worth Up to £500 Per Year
- Universal Credit claimants can apply for free school meals.
- Saves up to £500 per child annually.
- All primary school children from Reception to Year 6 qualify.
Apply via your local council website.
14. Council Tax Reduction – Up to 100% Off Your Bill
- Universal Credit claimants may reduce council tax payments by up to 100%.
- Discounts depend on:
- Income, number of children, and residency status
- Savings, pensions, and partner’s income
Check with your local council for eligibility.
If you’re on Universal Credit, these 14 benefits, discounts, and grants can save you thousands of pounds per year.
With budget cuts expected soon, it’s essential to claim what you’re entitled to before changes take effect. Visit GOV.UK or your local JobCentre to check your eligibility and apply.
FAQ’s
What discounts can Universal Credit claimants get in March 2024?
Universal Credit claimants can access 14 discounts, including Warm Home Discount (£150 off bills), free school meals, and reduced travel costs.
How can I apply for the Warm Home Discount?
The Warm Home Discount is applied automatically for eligible claimants, but if you haven’t received a letter, contact the scheme before February 28.
What childcare support is available on Universal Credit?
Universal Credit reimburses up to 85% of registered childcare costs, with a monthly cap of £1,014.63 for one child and £1,739.37 for two or more children.
Can I get a discount on broadband while on Universal Credit?
Yes, social tariffs provide cheaper broadband and phone packages for Universal Credit claimants. Check with your provider for available offers.
How do I apply for free school meals?
If you receive Universal Credit, apply for free school meals through your local council’s website. This can save up to £500 per child per year.
