Information on filling out forms, benefits assessments, and where to find out more.
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We know it’s hard to access benefits. Often the media, or other people’s views, makes it feel like there’s a stigma attached to benefits. Some people have misconceptions about why we need benefits, and what they’re used for.
For many of us with mental health problems, it can feel like the whole benefits system isn’t designed to meet our needs.
But it’s important to know that benefits are there to support you. You have a right to claim them if you’re struggling to manage or just need that bit extra.
And even though the system is hard to navigate, there are lots of places where you can get support and information to help you with your claim. The information on this page might help get you started.
"It's OK to claim benefits and to spend money on yourself. Never be afraid to seek advice or help."
You may be able to access several benefits if you have a mental health problem. Benefits can help you pay for day-to-day costs, like food, rent and childcare. And you can claim some benefits even if you’re working. Find out which benefits you could claim by:
Universal Credit is gradually replacing these benefits:
To move over to Universal Credit, the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) may get in touch with you to ask you to make a claim for Universal Credit – this is a process known as managed migration. You don't have to apply for Universal Credit until the DWP asks you to.
The Mental Health and Money Advice website has information on moving over to Universal Credit, including how the move will affect your other benefits.
We at Mind think the benefits system should work better for people with mental health problems.
For most benefits, you’ll have to fill in a form before you’re able to receive any money.
This can be daunting, and it might be hard to know where to start. Here are some tips for filling in forms:
Find out how to fill in the form for:
"The application form is so stressful. I found it really difficult to navigate, so I went to the job centre and thankfully they helped me."
For some benefits, you’ll have to go to an assessment to make sure you meet the criteria to receive that benefit.
You might be worried about the assessment, and that’s understandable. Lots of people have told us it can be hard to know what to expect at the assessment, or know how to answer the questions.
Find out more about what happens at the assessment for:
See our information on how to manage stress and anxiety around assessments.
"The more I worried about money, the more unwell I got."
You might have applied for benefits and been unsuccessful. This can be frustrating, especially if you’re not sure why you weren’t eligible.
However, you can appeal a decision if you think it was wrong. Even if it feels off–putting, or you’re worried about being turned down for a second time, it can still be worth trying. Remember, it’s completely within your rights to appeal a decision you think is wrong.
The Mental Health and Money Advice website has more information on how to appeal a benefits decision.
"I'm broke. Again. My head starts to spiral."
This information was published in April 2022. We will revise it in 2024.
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