What money will I live on?
Aged between 15 and 18
You will mostly likely be living in local authority funded accommodation (for example foster care).
As a result, you will receive a personal allowance from your foster carer.
Aged under 18 and a parent
You may be able to receive an income from the benefits agency if:
- you are 18, and
- are looking after your own child
If this is the case, the additional benefit will continue after you turn 18.
Please consult your Social Worker / Personal Advisor.
Staying in school between the ages of 16 and 19
You can obtain a 16 to 19 bursary payment through your college if:
- you stay on at school or college after year 11,
- the course you are taking involves12 or more hours a week, and
- if your attendance is good
You will also be eligible for a student travel pass.
Please get further advice from your Social Worker / Personal Advisor. It is important you make sure you are receiving what you are entitled.
Turning 18
When you turn 18, the local authority will stop providing you with personal allowance. This is because you are now eligible to apply for benefits.
You will be helped to make a benefit claim at least one month before your birthday if you are:
- not working, or
- taking part in a paid apprenticeship
You will be booked in to see a Jobcentre Advisor who specifically supports care leavers to claim either:
- job seekers allowance (JSA)
- income support
- employment and support allowance (ESA)
- universal credit
This depends on your personal circumstances.
They will also help you to make a claim for:
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Support/Reduction
This will help pay towards the cost of your accommodation and council tax bill.
They can also help you with:
- filling out forms
- give you advice on what's the best benefit to claim for your personal circumstances
- help you find a job or apprenticeship
- contacting benefits agency on your behalf
If you are entitled to claim any form of benefits, it is very important you do so:
- in order, and
- without delay
This is to manage your financial needs.
Remember you need to have:
- a bank account before you turn 18 years old
- ID
- National Insurance number
This is because you are responsible to claim Housing Benefit to pay your rent, Council Tax and claim any relevant benefits such as:
- job seekers allowance
- income support
- universal credit
- employment and support allowance
What if things go wrong?
Speak to your Housing Officer or Personal Advisor. Please don't leave it too late to resolve any issues, we are here to support you.