04. Where to claim?

Different agencies and authorities are responsible for different benefits. You must get in touch with the right one to apply for each benefit. See 'Further help' for their phone numbers and other details.

Department for Work and Pensions
This government department is currently responsible for providing most social security benefits, though administration of the benefits is being transferred to two separate agencies. JobCentre Plus will eventually deal with all claims from people of working age whereas the Pension Service will deal with claims for Retirement Pension and Pension Credit for people over 60.  Not all areas have these agencies in place yet and so claims may still continue to be processed at local social security offices.  The Disability and Carers Directorate administers claims for Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance and Carers Allowance separately.

Inland Revenue
If you are claiming tax credits, Child Benefit or Guardian's Allowance, you should claim from the Inland Revenue. The Inland Revenue also deals with questions about national insurance.

Your local authority (council)
Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit are normally dealt with by your local council. Some councils have passed on this work to private companies, but you should speak to your council first.

Veterans Agency
Claims for War Pensions are made to this agency at the Ministry of Defence, though most military service organisations will also be able to help you with claims.