UK Benefits Calculator: What Benefits Am I Entitled To in 2026?

Several free, confidential online tools will tell you what benefits you may be entitled to based on your circumstances. Turn2Us (turn2us.org.uk/benefits-calculator) is one of the most comprehensive. EntitledTo (entitledto.co.uk) is another trusted calculator. Policy in Practice's Better Off Calculator is used by councils. These tools ask about your income, savings, housing, family situation and current benefits, then estimate what you could claim. None of them record your personal details or share with DWP.

Many people don't realise that working doesn't disqualify you from benefits. Universal Credit supplements low wages — if you're working and earning under the work allowance threshold, you keep 45p of UC for every £1 you earn above the allowance. Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit (for those not yet migrated to UC) also support low-income workers. Childcare Element (up to 85% of childcare costs) is available to UC claimants who are working.

Families with children have access to significant additional support. Child Benefit (£25.60/week for first child, £16.95 for each additional) is available to most families and is not means-tested below £60,000 income. Free childcare hours (15–30 hours/week) are available for eligible working parents. Tax-Free Childcare provides a 20% top-up on childcare costs. Sure Start Maternity Grant provides £500 for first children to low-income families. Healthy Start vouchers support families with young children on qualifying benefits.

Significant support exists for people with disabilities or long-term health conditions. Personal Independence Payment (PIP) helps with daily living and mobility costs. Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) or the UC Limited Capability for Work element supports those unable to work due to illness. Carer's Allowance (£81.90/week) is available to those providing 35+ hours/week of unpaid care. Attendance Allowance is available for those over State Pension age needing care.