The calculator does not work out eligibility for a number of kinds of people. Special rules apply if you fall into one of the following groups and our estimate may not be correct.

Groups not included in the calculator

are:

• Students
• Under 18s
• Prisoners
• People on strike
• People who are not British or Irish citizens
• UK nationals who live abroad

Under 18s

The calculator also does not cover under 18 year olds (the question taking your age will indicate this). Single people under 18 and couples where both are under 18 should not use the calculator, as special rules apply to under 18s that are not included in the calculator.

If you are under 18 but your partner is older than 18 then you can still use the calculator to calculate Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit and tax credits. In this case, enter that the younger one is aged 18. Note though that the result may not be accurate for other benefits where different rates of benefit may apply if you have a partner aged under 18. For more information see benefit rules about age.

Not a British or Irish citizen or living abroad

Entitlement to benefits and tax credits is limited for people subject to immigration control. If you are not a British or Irish citizen, or your partner is not an EEA national who arrived into the UK before 1 January 2021, you should not use the calculator. If you are a UK national who lives abroad you should also not use the calculator. The calculator cannot determine your immigration status, which affects your entitlement to benefits and tax credits. For more information see not a British or Irish citizen.

If we cannot provide an estimate through the calculator you should seek further advice from a recognised adviser. Please see our more advice page for guidance.