The majority of state benefits (also called social security benefits) are managed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) via the Jobcentre Plus.

More information on the range of state benefits that may be available to individuals in the UK can be found on the GOV.UK website.

For more details of benefits in Scotland, see the Scottish Government website. For information on welfare benefit in Wales, see the Welsh Government website.

Significant welfare powers have been devolved to the Scottish Government, including the right to create new benefits and responsibility for some existing benefits. The tax status of benefits is determined by the UK Government.

The position in Wales is under review, with the majority of benefits administered at UK level, though the Welsh Government and local authorities in Wales continue to administer some grants and allowances. For an overview of the policy position, see the Wales Centre for Public Policy website.