Do not trash your cash!

Residents are urged to check their post to make sure they do not miss important changes to the benefits they claim.

Some benefits are ending and are being replaced by Universal Credit.

The Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) is sending migration notices through the post to anyone whose benefits will be changing. To ensure you continue to receive the money you are entitled to, you must claim Universal Credit by the deadline date on your migration notice.

The benefits which are being replaced are:

Tax credits: working tax credit and child tax credit
Income support
Income-based jobseeker’s allowance (JSA)
Income-related employment and support allowance (ESA)
Housing benefit, unless you’re in supported or temporary accommodation 

Mike Robinson from Citizens Advice in Darlington said "It is so important that you open and read all mail you receive to ensure you don't miss your migration notice and lose out financially.
"If you receive a letter and need help, understanding it, or to make a claim, contact our benefit entitlement action team (BEAT) as soon as possible. When you make a claim may make a difference to how much money you receive. Whether or not you have received your migration letter, we can help you make sure you are claiming all the benefits you are entitled to and that you can continue to get at least the same amount of money when you transfer. Single people or families who have long-term health problems may want to check with us first.
"You can email the team at [email protected], call 01325 734999 to leave a message and someone will call you back, or call into our Church Row offices.”

Jim Garner, cabinet member for stronger communities, said: “It is so important people open their post and make sure they don’t accidentally throw these letters away.
“Official letters can sometimes be confusing, but help is available so please do not ignore your post. We should all check with friends and relatives who receive benefits too, so they keep an eye out for their letter and don’t miss the deadline!”

For information, help and support contact Darlington Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB)
www.citizensadvicedrc.org.uk
Email [email protected]
Call 01325 266888.