Financial Information and Resources

Benefits Support

The benefits system can be tricky to navigate. But for actors and stage management, especially those freelancing or with varying income levels, knowing what you’re entitled to is key.

Check your Benefits Eligibility

Asking for help isn’t always easy – it can be difficult to reach out for support at times, or apply for the benefits you are entitled to, but the welfare system is there for a reason: to support us when life throws curveballs. Whether you’re dealing with work changes, health issues, caring responsibilities, housing, childcare, or just trying to make ends meet, claiming the help you’re entitled to can provide real relief during tough times. If you’re eligible, applying for benefits could be a game-changer for easing financial pressures.

Here’s a quick rundown of what actors and stage management might be eligible for: 

• Employment and Support Allowance (ESA): If illness or a health condition affects your ability to work, and you’ve made the right National Insurance contributions, you might be able to get New Style ESA payments. Savings or a partner’s income won’t affect this. 
• Universal Credit for the self-employed: If you’re self-employed with a low or variable income, or out of work, Universal Credit can help with living costs. You’ll need to report your income and expenses regularly. Check out this guide.
• Work-related benefits: If you’re working, whether employed or self-employed and your household income is low, it’s a good idea to check what benefits you might be eligible for. This is especially important if you rent your home or have children, as you could qualify for a state benefit depending on your situation.
• Personal Independence Payment (PIP): This helps with extra costs if you have a physical or mental health condition or disability that makes it difficult to carry out daily activities or get around. It’s for people over 16 and under State Pension age, regardless of income or savings. Check out the Turn2Us PIP Helper for more info.
• Adult Disability Payment (Scotland): If you live in Scotland, this is the equivalent of PIP.
• Carer’s Allowance: If you regularly care for someone with a disability, you might be eligible. Carers allowance is for people who spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone with a disability who receives a qualifying benefit. 
• Child Benefit: If you have children under 16 (or under 20 if they’re in education or training), check if you can get Child Benefit.
• Housing support: If you are on a low income, you may be able to get support towards housing costs, such as help with mortgage, rent, or Council Tax.
• Retirement benefits: If you’re around or over retirement age, such as pension credit.