Universal Credit perks: All the freebies, discounts and grants available in 2026

Millions of people claim Universal Credit to help cover everyday living costs, but many don't realise that claiming means you can tap into other freebies, discounts and schemes worth hundreds of pounds.

From free school meals to cheaper broadband and discounted days out, claiming Universal Credit is worth far more than the cash payments.

We explain the key perks available in 2026, who qualifies and how to make sure you're not missing out on support that could save you a big chunk of cash.

Universal Credit broadband discounts

If you claim Universal Credit, you may also qualify for discounts on household broadband bills through special schemes known as social tariffs.

Big broadband providers offer discounted packages for people on Universal Credit and low income, including BT, Sky and Virgin Media.

You can usually switch to a social tariff without paying an exit fee so check what's on offer and whether you could save.

You could also be able to get cheaper mobile phone bills through a social tariff.

Healthcare freebies with Universal Credit

If you claim Universal Credit you could qualify for free NHS prescriptions, dental treatment and eye checks - though it depends on your take-home pay.

You are entitled to help if your take-home pay was £435 or less in the last assessment period or if you have a child living with you, the threshold rises to £935 or less.

NHS eye tests can cost around £25 and the cost can put people off so make sure you use the Universal Credit perk if you can.

You will also get money off new glasses or contact lenses, plus help with travel to NHS treatments.

Universal Credit discounted days out

Lots of top attractions across the UK offer free or heavily discounted entrance fees if you claim Universal Credit.

This includes attractions such as Kew Gardens, Hampton Court Palace and London Zoo.

Bear in mind that you'll usually have to book online and in advance to get these special priced tickets.

We have rounded up a full list of Universal Credit days out.

Extra help with childcare and family costs on Universal Credit

If you claim Universal Credit, one of the biggest perks is getting free school meals for your children.

And from September 2026, anyone claiming the benefit will likely qualify as the earnings threshold for Universal Credit claimants in England is being removed entirely.

This means every child in a household receiving Universal Credit will qualify for free school meals, regardless of how much the family earns.

Right now, you can be on Universal Credit and still miss out if your household earns more than £7,400 a year after tax.

Universal Credit can also reimburse a large chunk of childcare costs each month, helping to cover expenses for registered nurseries, childminders, after-school clubs and other approved childcare providers.

This support can be worth thousands of pounds over the course of a year.

You'll usually need to pay the childcare costs upfront and then report them through your Universal Credit account.

Furthermore, Universal Credit claimants who are pregnant or have children under four can receive help to buy milk, fruit, vegetables and infant formula, plus free vitamins through the Healthy Start scheme.

You'll need to have a household income of less than £408 a month to qualify for Healthy Start. You can apply online for the scheme here.

Extra help to save on Universal Credit

If you're claiming Universal Credit, you can get help with amassing a pot of cash with the government's Help To Save scheme.

The account is designed to encourage people on low incomes to build up a financial safety net while offering a reward for putting money aside regularly.

With a Help to Save account, you can save between £1 and £50 each month and receive a 50% government bonus on your savings. This means that for every £1 you save, the government effectively adds an extra 50p, making it one of the most generous savings products available.

The money can be used fro anything you like from a deposit on a home, or simply for a family holiday.

Council Tax Reduction on Universal Credit

If you're claiming Universal Credit, you may be able to cut your council tax bill through a scheme known as Council Tax Reduction.

The amount of support available varies depending on where you live, as each local authority sets its own rules.

In some areas, households can receive a substantial reduction in their council tax bill, while others may qualify for partial discounts based on their income, savings, household size and personal circumstances.

Contact your local authority to see if you could pay less each month for the bill.