what am i entitled to?

Question

i am a 2nd year university student and i am about to have a baby.

i have recieved the grants and loans from my LEA.

i live with my partner and he is also a student.

today is my last day at university until after christmas i expect .

my partner is continuing to do his studying as his course is more intense than mine and i can pick up where i left off after christmas (although i have done all work neede up til beginning of december)

here are the circumstances in more detail.

both live in private rented accomodation

both students

partner works just a few hours a week because of course commitments.

just wondering if anybody know what kind of benefits etc we could be entitled to.

we are very reluctant to use the benefit system but cirrcumstances have led us to veiw all options.

we plan on being in full time employment within 2 years and so feel we will pay back what we get given.

thanks in advance

Answer 1

You already do not have to pay council tax as you are a student. You might be able to get help with housing costs. You will also be entitled to the Parent's Learning Allowance which is not included in any benefit calculations.

Check out the Special Grant rather than the Maintainance Grant because this is also not included in benefit calculations. You will also be entitled to Child Tax Credit and help with childcare if you need it.

Answer 2

as far as financial aid goes--check with the financial aid office and see if there are any unclaimed grants. The school in order to get their money need to get rid of all of the grant money or they get their grants cut. Also the federal government used to print a brouchure for college students called "getting your own", it explained the grant and scholarship process and where you could get money. The money can be used for school or living expenses, but be careful--if you use it for living expenses, it may be taxable income.

If you are self sufficient, then pell grants are need based grants for undergrads, you can get one for up to 5 years. If you pay taxes, you will also qualify for a tax break for your education (the HOPE tax cerdit and lifetime education tax credit).

And as for the benefit system, that's what it's there for. If you qualify to use the system, then use it. When you start working your taxes will pay into it. You are expecting a child and you will probably qualify for WIC (free formula if you aren't breast feeding!) and check to see if you qualify for food stamps.

After my parents divorce, my dad skipped town and stopped paying alimony and child support. We were in section 8 housing and on food stamps for several years until she could get a decent job that supported the family.

As an adult I also had a friend who was a nursing major and her husband was laid off from work. Because they owned their home, they didn't qualify for food stamps, but because they had a 2 year old and a new born they did qualify for WIC.

Good Luck to you!

edit: I assumed you were in the US but the UK and Canada should have similar programs.

Answer 3

I think you should at least apply for housing and council tax benefit. You've nothing to lose they can only say yes or no, but if you have a limited income then I don;t see why not.
If you live in the UK then try this link. It should give you all the information you need
http://www.dwp.gov.uk/

Answer 4

wedding ring.