Income support

Income Support is one of the older benefits, from before Universal Credit came along. You can't make a new claim any more, but some people still receive it, so you might see it mentioned on the forum. If you're on a low income and need help now, Universal Credit is the benefit to apply for.
How much is it? (weekly rates from April 2026)
Personal allowance (the basic amount)
Single, under 25: £75.65
Single, 25 or over: £95.55
Lone parent, 18 or over: £95.55
Couple, both 18 or over: £150.15
Some people get extra amounts on top (called premiums), for example the family premium of £20.22 or a disability or carer premium. These depend on your circumstances.
Who could claim it (when new claims were open)?
Income Support was for people on a low income who didn't have to look for work, such as:
a lone parent with a child under 5
a carer
someone unable to work who gets Statutory Sick Pay
a young parent in non-advanced education
Good things to know:
Nothing needs to be done if you already get it. You'll carry on being paid until you're moved across to Universal Credit, and the DWP will write to you when it's your turn.
Please wait for that letter before claiming Universal Credit yourself. A new UC claim can end your Income Support, and you might be worse off.
Savings over £6,000 reduce what you get, and over £16,000 usually mean no Income Support.
It's not paid with Jobseeker's Allowance or ESA, and it's taken into account as income by some other benefits.
You may be able to get help with things like free prescriptions, dental treatment and school meals if you're on it.
The benefit cap can apply, so check how it affects you.
If you're on it and your circumstances change (like a new partner, a child turning 5, or going back to work), tell the DWP as soon as you can.
Where to start: if you're currently on Income Support and unsure what happens next, Citizens Advice, Turn2us and our forum are good places to ask before doing anything.
Rates are correct for 2026/27, but always double-check on GOV.UK. Northern Ireland has its own arrangements, so our NI friends should check Nidirect.
If you've been moved across to Universal Credit, please share how it went on the forum, as your experience could really help others.