Using Benefits Calculators

Gather Your Information

Before using the calculator, collect the following details:

Personal Information:

• Your age, marital status, and address.

• Details about who lives with you (e.g., children, partner, or other dependents).

Income Details:

• Your earnings, including wages, pensions, or other income sources.

• Any benefits you are already receiving.

Housing Information:

• Whether you rent, own, or live with family.

• Monthly rent or mortgage payments.

Savings and Capital:

• Total savings or investments you have.

Health and Disability Details:

• Any health conditions or disabilities, and whether you receive disability-related benefits (e.g., Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA)).

Employment Status:

• Whether you are employed, self-employed, or unemployed.

• Your working hours and type of job.

Choose a Benefits Calculator

Both Turn2Us and EntitledTo are free and anonymous tools. Here are the links:

1. Turn2Us: www.turn2us.org.uk

2. EntitledTo: www.entitledto.co.uk

Start Using the Calculator

1. Go to the website of your chosen benefits calculator.

2. Look for the "Benefits Calculator" button or section on the homepage.

3. Click on Start Calculation or a similar option.

Answer the Questions

Work through each question step by step. Common sections include:

• Personal and family circumstances.

• Income and savings.

• Housing costs.

• Health conditions or disabilities.

Be honest and accurate to get the most reliable results.

Review the Results

• The calculator will provide a list of benefits you may be eligible for, along with approximate amounts.

• Read through the results carefully. If you’re unsure about any recommendations, note them down for further clarification.

Take Next Steps

• Apply for Benefits: The calculator will often provide links to apply for the benefits it suggests. Follow the links and complete the online application forms.

• Get Help: If you need support applying, contact the service for help (see contact details below).

Contact Information for Support

Turn2Us

• Website: www.turn2us.org.uk

• Helpline Phone Number: 0808 802 2000 (Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm)

• Email Support: Use their contact form: Turn2Us Contact Form

EntitledTo

• Website: www.entitledto.co.uk

• Email Support: support@entitledto.co.uk (for technical or calculator-related queries)

Alternative Ways to Get Help

Citizens Advice:

• Website: www.citisensadvice.org.uk

• Phone: 0800 144 8848 (Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm)

• Local Office: Use their website to find your nearest office.

Local Council:

• Contact your local council for housing benefit or council tax support queries. Find your council: Find Your Local Council

Follow Up

1. If you are unsure about the results or how to proceed, contact a support service (like Citizens Advice or Turn2Us).

2. Keep records of all communications and applications.

Final Thoughts

This guide ensures you can navigate benefits calculators effectively and access further support if needed.