Eligible families with children born between March 1, 2016 and February 28, 2017 are being urged to apply to Social Security Scotland for the Best Start Grant School Age Payment before applications close on Monday, February 28.
The School Age Payment is a grant of £252.50 per child and supports Scots on Tax Credits and certain benefits with children around the time they are old enough to start school.
The money can be used at this key stage in a child’s life to help pay for clothes, equipment, bags, books or anything else that is helpful for people caring for children in that age range.
Parents who have deferred their child’s entry to school from August 2021 to August 2022, or those homeschooling, must still apply before the February 28 closing date.
Social Security Minister Ben Macpherson said: “If your child is five-years-old or turning five this month, and you are on certain benefits including Universal Credit or Tax Credits, then you could be eligible for the Best Start Grant School Age Payment.
“The Scottish Government wants everyone to get the financial support they are entitled to, and so I would encourage everyone eligible to apply before the deadline, or if you’re not sure if you’re eligible please contact Social Security Scotland to find out more.”
Qualifying benefits
- Universal Credit
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit
He continued: “This is the third year of our School Age Payments and I have heard from parents about how they have used the money to, for example, get necessary supplies for starting school or sign up a child for a sports club or class.
“This money is part of the package of five family benefits we offer to help parents and carers balance their budgets.”
Ann Baldock from One Parent Families Scotland added: “At One Parent Families Scotland we recognise the importance of families having extra money in their pockets at a time when they might need it most. We would like to encourage families who might be eligible for School Age Payment to contact Social Security Scotland before the deadline next Monday to find out more and ensure they don’t miss out.”
For more information on Best Start Grants or Best Start Foods, visit the mygov.soct website here or call 0800 182 2222.
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