What Benefits and Help am I Entitled To?
Universal Credit
You can apply for Universal Credit if you are on a low income, or unemployed. Typically, you will need to be aged 18 or over to claim Universal Credit, but there are certain circumstances that mean you could claim aged 16 or 17. The criteria to claim Universal Credit aged 16 or 17 can be found on the UK Gov website: Universal Credit: Eligibility - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Your Universal Credit payment will be paid on a monthly basis, but your first payment might take about 5 weeks to be paid. The payment is normally paid directly into an account in your name, and it will need to be paid into a current account, rather than a savings account.
The Understanding Universal Credit website has a lot of useful information that might be helpful for you Understanding Universal Credit - Home
Housing Benefit is being replaced by Universal Credit in most cases, so if you are responsible for paying rent for the home you live in, or if you have a mortgage, Universal Credit may provide help towards the cost. This is known as Universal Credit housing costs. However, there are some situations where Housing Benefit will not be replaced by Universal Credit, and you can make a new claim for Housing Benefit. This would be if you are in supported, sheltered or temporary housing.
Citizens Advice Rhondda Cynon Taff have lots of useful information and advice around benefits and your entitlements: Citizens Advice Rhondda Cynon Taff - Cyngor ar Bopeth Rhondda Cynon Taff (carct.org.uk)
Council Tax Exemptions
As part of RCT Council’s Corporate Parenting responsibilities, if you are a care leaver aged between 18 and 25, you will be exempt from paying council tax. Your Personal Advisor can help you apply for the exemption, by completing and signing ‘Section 2’ of the exemption form. The form, along with a bit more information, can be found here: Care leavers exemption | Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council (rctcbc.gov.uk)
Help with Health Costs
As part of the Low Income Scheme, you might be eligible for help with the cost of NHS dental treatment, sight tests, glasses and contact lenses, and necessary travel to and from hospital for NHS treatment if you are under the care of a hospital consultant.
Have a look on the Welsh Government website for more information Low income scheme: help with NHS health costs | GOV.WALES