Can I Claim Benefits If I Homeschool My Child?

In this blog post, we will answer the question “Can You Claim Benefits If You Homeschool In The UK?”, so you can make an informed decision about the best option for your family. We will discuss the different types of benefits available and how to apply for them if you choose to homeschool.

Can I Claim Benefits If I Homeschool My Child?

Yes, you can claim benefits if you homeschool your child in the UK and are on a low income. It is quite common for a parent to be on a low income if they homeschool their child as their working hours are reduced. However, you will not be able to claim benefits based on homeschooling your child and either using it as a reason for a reduced income or by asking for financial support to pay for learning materials so you can homeschool your child.

Whether you were claiming benefits before you started homeschooling your child or have recently applied for them after being faced with a low income, the fact that you homeschool your child will not affect your eligibility for a benefits claim; nor will it add to your ability to qualify for a benefit.

Depending on your circumstances and how much income you have, there are a variety of benefits available for families who homeschool their children. As part of these benefits, there are Low-Income Support programs for families with a low income. Through this program, they can claim means-tested benefits such as the following:

• Tax credits are available to those who are homeschooling their child. These include the Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit, both of which are designed to help families with children. Child Tax Credit can help with childcare costs, while Working Tax Credit provides support to people in work on a low income. Your claim on Tax Credits can only be affected if you stop working to homeschool your child; which is not an advisable option.

• Individuals who homeschool their child and are on a low income can claim Universal Credit. This is a welfare benefit which takes into account a family’s total income, including that of any partner or other adult members of the household and provides support to meet the cost of living.

• Welfare benefits also refer to assistance such as Child Benefit, which can help with living costs such as rent and utility bills. You can continue claiming Child Benefit while you homeschool your child.

It is important to note that the eligibility requirements for these benefits vary depending on individual circumstances. To find out more about the eligibility criteria and how to apply for these benefits, you should contact Jobcentre Plus or visit the government’s website regarding benefits for further information.

If you are looking for further help with homeschooling your child, you can get information from your council.

Are There Any Requirements To Claim Benefits If I Homeschool My Child?

Yes, there are certain requirements that you will need to meet if you wish to claim benefits while you homeschool your child. The foremost requirement in this regard is that your child must be in “approved education”.

Approved education is home-based education which is based on the following structure:

• Lessons take place for at least 12 hours each week on average. Otherwise, they must run for 540 hours each year, with provision for holiday periods

• The home education format must essentially include supervised study for an average of 12 hours a week of supervised study. Otherwise, it can also be course-related work experience

• However, homeschooling should not be for an advanced education course such as above level 3, or A levels and their equivalents.

Is There Any Financial Support I Can Claim If I Homeschool My Child?

Yes, there is additional support available to individuals who homeschool their child and as a result, work fewer hours and are on a low income. Following are some examples:

• If you live in Northern Ireland, you can apply for Education Maintenance Allowance. EMA helps low-income families pay for things like school trips, educational materials, and other necessary costs related to homeschooling. The allowance is usually paid in regular instalments throughout the year and can be claimed by families with an annual income below £30,000.

• You can apply for the Discretionary Learner Support under The Workers’ Educational Association; a charity registered in England, Wales and. DLS is a discretionary fund available to help cover the cost of learning materials and other resources needed to complete courses and exams when homeschooling. Eligibility criteria apply, and support may be given depending on the family’s financial circumstances. 

• Applicants who belong to a particularly low-income household or those who have a child with a learning disability may be able to apply for an Educational Grant through their local council office. These grants are awarded to families who meet certain criteria and are used to help pay for educational resources and expenses related to homeschooling. 

Ultimately, whether or not you can claim benefits if you homeschool your child in the UK depends on your circumstances. It is important to research all the options available and understand what each benefit entails before applying.

Conclusion:

Homeschooling is becoming an increasingly popular option for families in the UK, but many parents are left wondering what benefits they may be able to claim if they choose to homeschool their children. This blog post has helped highlight the benefits you can claim if you choose to homeschool your child; especially if you are on a low income due to reduced working hours.

References:

Home Education: Information on Child Benefit

Can I Claim Benefits If I Homeschool My Child in the UK? — The Hedge

Homeschooling On Benefits, Tax Credits & Funding: What’s The Deal? –