DWP £560 Monthly Payments: Eligibility Check for 5 Key Groups
Families across the UK are being urged to verify their eligibility for hundreds of pounds in extra monthly support, with potential payments averaging £560. This initiative aims to address the billions in benefits left unclaimed annually, offering a lifeline to households struggling with financial pressures.
Online Tool to Identify Unclaimed Benefits
Stephen Noakes, director of retail at Nationwide Building Society, recently addressed the Treasury Committee, highlighting the critical need for improved financial inclusion. He emphasized the importance of ensuring individuals access all services they qualify for, particularly through benefits from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) or local councils.
Nationwide has introduced the Better Off Indicator, an online calculator launched in June 2025 in collaboration with Policy in Practice. This tool allows users to input details about their household, savings, and income to identify potential entitlements. For those preferring personal assistance, support is available over the phone at 0300 3730619.
Significant Impact on Household Finances
Mr Noakes reported that since its introduction, 18,000 households have used the tool, with 11,000 discovering they were eligible for benefits. The average gain per household is £560 monthly, a sum described as "life-changing" for many families. This effort tackles the estimated £24 billion in benefits unclaimed in the UK each year, often due to misconceptions about eligibility.
As stated on Nationwide's website, benefit eligibility extends beyond those unable to work, encompassing a wide range of support payments designed to improve financial stability.
Five Key Groups Eligible for Extra Payments
The guidance outlines five primary groups that may qualify for additional cash:
- Individuals or partners who are out of work
- Those renting their home
- Households with children
- People with disabilities or those caring for someone with a disability
- Recipients of the state pension
Types of Support Available
The benefits calculator can identify entitlements to various support schemes, including:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Carer's Allowance
- Child Benefits
- Personal Independence Payment
- Council tax discounts
This comprehensive approach ensures that eligible individuals do not miss out on crucial financial aid, promoting greater economic resilience and well-being across communities.
