TWO new benefits being brought in next month could make more St Helens people eligible for cash help.

Family Credit and the Disability Working Allowance are to be replaced by the Working Family Tax Credit and Disabled Persons Tax Credit on October 5.

The credits, catering for people with families who are working more than 16 hours a week on low and medium income, will be more generous than the benefits they replace, making more people eligible to claim.

Initially, tax credits will be paid by the Inland Revenue but from April next year they will be paid by employers through wages and will be paid for 26 weeks, the same as they are now.

There are five key differences under the new benefits:

There will be a total disregard for any maintenance payments.

There will be no requirements for claimants to co-operate with the Child Support Agency.

There are more generous guidelines.

The arrangements for dealing with childcare charges are also more generous and are allowed also for older children.

Couples can choose who is to be the applicant (Working Family Tax Credit only).

Information and application forms can be obtained on 0845 605 5858 or ring St Helens Rights Advice Shop on 456202 and speak to a rights adviser.

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