Single mum - what am I entitled too??

[tonksy83]

Hello everyone!

I am working as a civil servant and qualify for 6 mths on maternity full pay which is fantastic news. Then take a further 6 weeks on statutory maternity pay. I am full time at the mo, but plan to return to only 16 hours per week, to receive full benefits, since I am single. Can anyone explain what I am entitled too....for example working tax credit? Child benefits etc??

I have been on entitledto.com and direct gov....but have ended up even more confused.

Any help would be lovely.

I am currently 22 week pregnant and although its early, I wouldn?t mind feeling a little more organised as its been stressful already doing all this alone.

:)

[lachesis]

Depending on your income, Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit and child benefit. If you're a renter, you may be entitled to housing benefit.

[caramelwaffle]

In addition to the above;

Council Tax Benefit (means tested)
Free Prescriptions (if you earn below a certain threshold)

Grants towards insulating your home/repairing, or replacing your boiler (if homeowner)

Grants towards Disability adaptions on your home (if qualifying)

[Takeresponsibility]

Have you actually checked that you will be allowed to go P/T. some departments have cut so deeply to meet the Govt's austerity measures that part time requests are being "considered" but then refused.

[Grevling]

Agree with Takeresponsibility.....step one is to get the PT working agreed.

[magicmummy1]

Also, check if you would have to pay back the enhanced maternity pay if you don't go back FT.

[allthefires]

Hi we have spoken before about carers break. Will pm you some advise about claiming benefits before you receive your first payment of maternity pay.

Will prob be tomorrow now. Do you know what date in month you are planning on leaving? Make it beginning of a month if possible. So much more beneficial!

[allthefires]

Ps it's additional 13wks on smp- bonus.