Income Support, child element and CTC

Freebie_Hunter_2

So we tried, and tried, but the relationship just hasn't worked out and unfortunately my partner and I have parted company.

Because I am not currently in work I have been advised to claim Income Support as a lone parent. Now, upon my research I have found that some people have said you may be better off claiming the child element of income support rather than CTC. I currently get CTC which is about £51 a week, yet the child element is a little more than that at about £56. That few pounds a week could make all the difference, so is there any way I can switch over to that?

Until I find a smaller place/full time work I have a £100 deficit in rent from LHA being so low (a month) and as I'll only get £65 a week for the income support (plus the CB/CTC) I'm really worried that I'm going to struggle.

Can anyone help please?


PS. I have just put in a fresh claim today and have my first interview on Tuesday.
Am I also entitled to anything else for now? Thanks for your help.

leemack

you can no longer claim child elements of income support - they're only in payment to people who were on IS before CTC came in.

Try contacting your LA to apply for a disretionary housing payment to top up LHA. It's only paid short term, normally 3-6 months.

karenx

Have you stopped your joint tax credits claim and claimed as a single person yet?
You can also get your child maintenance from your ex, while on income support you are only allowed to keep £20 per week. That would make up £80 a month which will help you with the rent!

Freebie_Hunter_2

Karen.....my ex has moved back to his parents 2hrs away and is signing on so I don't know if I will get maintenance from him. It's a shame I can't claim the child element as I would be £20 a month better off, thats several meals worth!

karenx

Are you and your ex on speaking terms? As when on JSA the CSA can take £5 a week from his benefits to give to you. So even with that you are still getting the £20 a month iyswim?
If you arent speaking then put a claim in to CSA and they can take the money. If you are speaking then Im sure if you explain the situation he would help you out with even £5 a week