What benefits can I claim after losing my job?

• Take a breath. You don't have to do everything today.
• Read your termination letter and final payslip. Keep them safe.
• Note the date your job actually ends — this is your reference point.
• Set aside an hour to start a Universal Credit claim online.
• Tell anyone you have a direct debit with that your income has changed; most will offer a short payment holiday on request.

Universal Credit is the main working-age benefit in the UK. It rolls together support for living costs, rent, children and certain health needs into a single monthly payment.

You can usually claim if your household savings are below £16,000, you're 18 or over (with some exceptions) and under State Pension age. If you live with a partner, you must claim together.

If you've paid enough Class 1 National Insurance contributions in the last two to three tax years, you may be able to claim New Style JSA for up to 182 days while you look for work.

New Style JSA isn't means-tested — savings and a partner's income don't affect it. You can claim it alongside Universal Credit, although the JSA amount is then deducted from UC pound for pound.

If you rent, Universal Credit usually includes a housing element up to the Local Housing Allowance rate for your area and household size. Bring your tenancy agreement and a recent rent confirmation when you claim.

If you own your home, UC doesn't pay your mortgage capital, but you may qualify for Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI) after a waiting period. SMI is a loan secured against your property — read the terms before deciding.

Council Tax Reduction (sometimes called Council Tax Support) is run by your local council and isn't included in Universal Credit. You apply separately through your council's website.

Schemes vary by council, so the rules and amounts are local. Apply as soon as you've lost your job — many councils backdate to the date of claim, not the date your income dropped.

If you're on a low income, you may qualify for help with prescription charges, dental treatment, eye tests and travel to hospital through the NHS Low Income Scheme (HC2 or HC3 certificate). Some Universal Credit claimants automatically qualify depending on earnings.

• Tell your energy supplier — most have hardship funds and can move you onto a manageable payment plan.
• Check whether you qualify for the Warm Home Discount (£150 off your winter electricity bill).
• Apply to your water company's social tariff — names vary (e.g. WaterSure, HelpU) but most have one.
• Look up British Gas Energy Trust, Octopus Assist or supplier-specific grants — these can clear arrears even if you're not their customer.

• Check whether you now qualify for Free School Meals (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland each have their own rules).
• Healthy Start vouchers help with milk, fruit and vegetables for children under 4 in low-income households.
• Universal Credit can cover up to 85% of registered childcare costs while you look for or take up work.
• School uniform grants are available from many local councils.

If you have no money for food, your local Citizens Advice or council welfare team can refer you to a food bank. Most councils also run a Household Support Fund — small grants for food, energy and essentials. You don't need to be claiming benefits already to apply.

• Jobcentre Plus offers free CV reviews, work coach sessions and access to vacancy databases.
• The Skills Toolkit and the National Careers Service offer free online courses.
• Sector-specific schemes (e.g. for digital, healthcare, construction) sometimes include short paid placements.
• Local councils often have free 'employment hubs' with one-to-one support.