Emergency support if your payments stop

You may experience a break in your payments. Depending when you make an application and on Social Security Scotland processing application times.

This could happen from 13 weeks after the date of your move because:

• the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) or the Department for Communities (NI) will end your award entitlement from 13 weeks after you move
• you're still waiting for Social Security Scotland to process your application

There are several types of support you could be eligible for. Select from the options to find out more.

Benefits support

Find out what benefits you can apply for or where you can get further support.

Read more about how Social Security Scotland can help you.

Universal Credit

Universal Credit is a means-tested benefit that provides support if you have a low income or no income at all.

You can apply for Universal Credit online at GOV.UK.

Scottish Welfare Fund

This national fund provides grants for people in urgent need.

The Scottish Welfare Fund is made up of 2 different grants:

• crisis grant – to help with an unexpected emergency like losing your job
• community care grant – to help you or someone you care to live independently

You can apply for these grants through your local council.

Find your local council's website.

Independent Living Fund Scotland

You could get extra funding if you’re disabled, live in Scotland, and need extra money to live independently.

The money comes from the Independent Living Fund Scotland (ILF Scotland).

Find out if you’re eligible for independent living funding.

Disability grants and funds

Various charities and organisations in Scotland provide grants and support to disabled people.

Some examples include:

• the Turn2us website, which helps people find grants and other financial aid
• Disability Information Scotland, which may be able to offer advice or direct you to further funding options

Housing support

If you rent your home and you're struggling with housing costs, you may be eligible for Housing Benefit or Universal Credit (housing element).

If you're a homeowner, you might be eligible for support with mortgage payments under Universal Credit or other housing-related benefits.

In Scotland, if you rent your home and you get Housing Benefit or Universal Credit, but still can't afford your housing costs, you may be eligible for a Discretionary Housing Payment.

Use the following links to:

• claim Housing Benefit in Scotland
• apply for Universal Credit in Scotland at moneyhelper.org.uk
• apply for Discretionary Housing Payment

Mental health support

If financial uncertainty is causing stress or anxiety, there are mental health support services available in Scotland, such as:

• Breathing Space, confidential phone service for people experiencing mental health distress
• mental health support in the community

Cost of living support

Check you're getting all the support available to you to help with the cost of living.

There may be support available you do not know about.

Carer Support

If you're a carer there's a range of support available beyond financial support.

Get help if you're a carer.