What can I claim

shirleyb23

I've took 4wks unpaid from work to look after my mother who has just been diagnosed with lung cancer, can I claim universal credit to help for that month as my mam panicking now as uses my board to pay her rent but obviously won't have any pay this month ( panicking on what to do ) anyone help with advice please

poppy123456

It takes 5 weeks for a first payment for UC if there's any entitlement. You can use a benefits calculator to check entitlement. If you live with a partner you'll need to claim as a couple and your joint circumstances will be taken into consideration. You will be treated as a job seeker unless your mum claims a disability benefit such as PIP daily living, DLA mid/high rate care or AA.

There's New style JSA which maybe quicker but even this will take a few weeks at least for your first payment. You also need to have the correct NI contributions in tax years 2022/23 and 2023/24 to be entitled to payments.

You mention your mum and her rent, does she claim any benefits herself? if so which ones exactly please?

It would also be worth while your mum speaking to McMillan cancer support and they will be able to do a full benefits check as well as other support.