Benefits & Entitlements Guide
As a polio survivor you could be eligible for a range of benefits and support, such as financial help, mobility aids, and grants.
Could You Be Missing Out on Benefits?
If you’re unemployed, retired, or on a low income, you might be able to claim extra support to help with things like housing, or day-to-day living costs.
A quick and easy way to check is by using a Benefits Calculator. It’s free, anonymous, and simple to use. Just answer a few questions and it’ll tell you what benefits you could be entitled to.
We recommend using a Benefits Calculator from Age UK (www.ageuk.org.uk) or Citizens Advice (www.citizensadvice.org.uk).
Common benefits and support
Lots of polio survivors don’t realise they’re entitled to help. Here are some of the most common benefits that could apply to you:
- Pension Credit: If you’ve reached state pension age, Pension Credit can top up your income with increases based on National Insurance contributions and open the door to other support like help with council tax or heating bills.
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP): PIP helps cover extra costs related to a long-term health condition or disability. It’s based on how your condition affects your daily living and mobility, not your diagnosis alone.
- Universal Credit: Universal Credit helps with living costs. While there are changes to the health top-up (only available to those over 22), the base rate is increasing. Be aware that some health-related extras may be reduced for new claimants.
- Attendance Allowance (AA): For those over state pension age with a disability or health condition that requires care and support.
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA): If your health affects your ability to work, ESA provides financial support while assessing what kind of work, if any, you’re able to do.
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income Support
- Tax Credits: including Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit
- Winter Fuel Payment: A tax-free payment to help with heating bills during the winter.
- British Polio Fellowship Grants: We offer help with heating costs (especially for those sensitive to cold), holiday grants, home adaptations and mobility equipment. Take a look at our Grants Programme.
Need a Hand?
If you’re unsure where to start, contact Citizens Advice or our Support Services team. We can help guide you through it all.