Belfast Debt Advice

Are your debt problems due to employment issues?

Are you on a low monthly income?

Struggling to find work?

About to retire with no private pension?

If you have employment issues, you may be eligible for help from The Department of Social Development (DSD). They make payments to people who are unemployed, in full time education, or are unable to work due to disability or age.

These payments are in the form of welfare benefits to help people like you meet your essential living costs. People who receive low income related benefits may also be entitled to housing benefit to pay their rent. You could also receive reduced rates bills. 

In order to apply for welfare benefits, the first step is to make an appointment at the Social Security Agency. You will need to fill in a form, giving details about when you last worked or why you do not work at present.

If you are eligible to receive welfare benefits, the Social Security agency will pay this into your bank or post office account. You will need to have an account before the Social Security agency can pay you.

Eligibility for benefits depends on an assessment of your savings or an accumulation of national insurance contributions you made while employed previously.

If you are married or live with someone, the Social Security Agency will take into account their income when assessing your eligibility for benefits.

The Citizens Advice Bureaux will be able to provide you with help and advice about benefits. Find the details of your local CAB below;