What benefits Can we get?

[shuby]

Hi, just wanted some information regarding the ability to claim benefits as there are a lot of people who are greatly informed about this.

I am a British citizen, got married in Pakistan. My wife is now here on her spouse visa and falls under the previous rules prior to the rule changes in July 2012. She came to England on the 13th October 2012. She also is almost 7 month pregnant and expecting our first child around beginning October.

My situation is I am applying for university starting this September 2013, and stopped part time work about 1 month ago. Also I am receiving no benefits or help at all from the government.

I was wondering what kind of benefits I am able to claim and what my wife can claim WITHOUT it affecting her ability and chances when applying for indefinite leave to remain. I need some help financially and with the near birth of baby, I need more space than I currently have. Please advise which benefits, such as child benefit, council tax, housing benefit etc are available to me or/and my wife

Any advice/help Is much appreciated as I am quite confused. Thanks in advance!

[Amber]

As your wife is subject to immigration control should look into the possible benefits:

In your name:

Child benefit
Sure start maternity grant

In joint names

Tax credits
Housing benefit - must only award a single person amount (plus child)
Council tax reduction - must only award a single person amount (plus child)

However, a full time student is not usually entitled to certain means tested benefits but as you have a child you should be. Go and see the students union advisor in the university you will be going to. They will do a benefits calculation and offer further advice.

[shuby]

Hi, thanks for the quick reply.

When would you suggest i should start claiming?
Should i start straight away as uni starts in september end and the baby is due around 13th october. So like you were saying i wouldnt normally get benefits due to university but because of the baby.

Also would i be able to get jobseekers allowance as i dont get that at the moment. Reason is without that, the maternity grant is not eligible for me as thats one of the conditions.

Thanks

[Amber]

Yes if you can actively seek employment then you can claim (again a single person amount). If you're not receiving a qualifying benefit you can apply (from 11 weeks before due date until 3 months after born) for the sure start grant then once you receive the tax credits (or other qualifying benefit), reapply. You should start claiming when you're eligible see the students union adviser, there could be other local support.