5 Effective Strategies in Treasury Management for Startups

Home Business Magazine Online

In the whirlwind of ideation, execution, and scaling, startups often juggle multiple facets of business development. One crucial area, yet frequently overlooked, is startup treasury management. At the heart of a startup’s financial stability lies the art and science of managing its funds efficiently. A startup’s financial lifeline isn’t merely about profit, but adept treasury management that dictates its sustainability and growth.

Accurate Cash Flow Forecasting

Forecasting your cash flow can often feel like gazing into a crystal ball. You’re trying to predict your startup’s financial future. Yet, it’s less about fortune-telling and more about meticulous planning.

Why Forecasting Matters

Have you ever anticipated a quiet trickle of water, only to face a torrential downpour? In the world of startups, cash flow can sometimes surprise you in a similar manner. Predicting your cash inflow and outflow, or cash flow forecasting, becomes the linchpin in treasury management for startups. It grants clarity, ensures financial stability, and informs savvy investment decisions, setting the course of your startup’s journey.

Effective Forecasting Tips

Start by understanding your operational cycle. Track every penny that comes in or goes out. Monitoring both receivables and payables gives you a comprehensive picture. And don’t forget, industries have seasons. Whether you’re in retail, tech, or any other sector, seasonal fluctuations matter. Factoring them into your forecasts can mean the difference between fiscal stress and smooth sailing.

Embracing Tech in Treasury

In an era dominated by technological innovation, treasury operations aren’t left behind. Digital solutions have become a game-changer, offering dynamic shifts in how we view and manage finances.

The Digital Shift

Imagine the power of real-time data at your fingertips. The influx of cash management technology offers this advantage, and it’s reshaping modern treasury. Digital solutions, with their ability to offer instant insights and data-driven decisions, are invaluable assets for startups eager to steer their financial ship effectively.

Tailored Digital Solutions

But diving into the digital realm isn’t about grabbing the shiniest tool off the shelf. It’s about discerning which tools align with your startup’s unique needs. Instead of succumbing to a one-size-fits-all mindset, aim for tools and solutions that can be customized. After all, every startup is a unique entity, deserving of bespoke financial solutions.

Navigating Financial Uncertainties

Every startup faces its share of sunny days and storms. The financial climate is ever-changing, and startups, in their nascent stages, can be especially vulnerable.

Market’s Unpredictable Nature

As much as we’d like to have it otherwise, market dynamics are fickle. Their unpredictable nature means that a treasury startup has to be more vigilant, more resilient.

Safeguarding Financial Assets

Mitigating risks in these uncertain times is paramount. Consider diversifying assets and investments to spread risks. An emergency fund isn’t just sound advice for individuals—it’s vital for startups too. This financial cushion can offer a buffer against unexpected downturns. And remember, always be ready to pivot. Regularly reviewing and tweaking your financial strategies ensures you’re not caught off-guard.

Building Banking Bridges

Your banking institution is more than a place that holds your money. It can be a valuable ally, a partner in your startup’s financial journey.

More Than Transactions

Building and nurturing relationships with banks can unlock myriad opportunities for a startup. A healthy rapport isn’t merely transactional—it’s strategic. When banks understand your business model and aspirations, they’re better positioned to offer tailor-made solutions that align with your goals.

Cultivating Strong Ties

How do you forge these ties? Start with transparency. Keeping your bank informed about your financial standing and future plans paves the way for mutual trust. Familiarize yourself with what banks offer and consider how their services might be leveraged for your startup’s advantage.

Continuous Treasury Learning

As in all areas of business, resting on one’s laurels in corporate treasury cash management is a mistake. The financial world evolves, and startups need to keep pace.

Stay Updated

Change is the only constant, and this adage rings true in the financial realm too. With practices, tools, and strategies in constant flux, staying updated becomes paramount for startups wishing to maintain an edge.

Pathways to Learning

Workshops, webinars, and networking events can be gold mines of knowledge. Engaging with peers, seeking mentorship, or simply keeping an ear to the ground can reveal actionable insights and novel strategies. In the dynamic world of startup treasury management, continuous learning isn’t just advisable—it’s imperative.

Unlocking Treasury Benefits

Incorporating the strategies and insights shared can unlock a trove of benefits for startups. Financial stability, informed investment decisions, and preparedness for market shifts aren’t just desirable outcomes—they can be standard experiences with the right approach to treasury management.

Our journey through the intricacies of treasury management highlights one core truth: startups have the power to shape their financial destiny. By understanding and integrating these strategies, startups can harness the true potential of treasury management. The financial journey of a startup, with its ups and downs, challenges, and victories, can be both rewarding and transformative.

The key lies in taking charge, making informed decisions, and charting a course towards sustainable growth.

The post 5 Effective Strategies in Treasury Management for Startups appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/money/money-management/5-effective-strategies-treasury-management-startups/

No, ChatGPT isn’t stealing Google’s search market share

Reporting on Google’s market share these days is like reporting on the sky (did you know it’s blue?).

Yet today, Seeking Alpha published an article with a clickable headline of ChatGPT eats away at Google search’s dominance.

This article (which is paywalled, so I’m not linking to it) is based on a Bank of America report (why is Bank of America talking about search market share?), which is based on data from StatCounter and Similar Web, which I learned of via an X post by Greg Sterling.

By the numbers. Google’s worldwide search market share, according to StatCounter:

  • October 2023: 91.53%
  • October 2022: 92.34%

This is Google’s lowest global search market share in the past 12 months. But is this ChatGPT eating into Google’s search market share? Extremely unlikely.

The problem? Statcounter doesn’t track ChatGPT because – hello? – it isn’t a search engine. It’s an LLM-based generative AI chatbot.

Relatively stable. Google Search has been “relatively stable” over the past 12 months, according to the report. Well, yes. But we can actually go further back than that on StatCounter.

Google has been “relatively stable” since August 2015. That’s the month Google surpassed 91% search market share worldwide for the first time.

In the past seven years, Googe’s search market share has bounced around from 91.1% (December 2015) to 93.37% (February 2023). For most of these eight years, ChatGPT didn’t exist, including from April to August 2018 when Google’s search market share dipped below 91%.

What about Bing? Microsoft Bing is still down year-on-year, 3.13% (October 2023) vs. 3.59% (October 2022), according to Statcounter. Meanwhile, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella has warned us that AI will make Google more dominant.

Dig deeper. The new Bing has failed to take any market share from Google after six months.

Other numbers. Some month-over-month comparisons from Similar Web:

  • Google traffic declined to 2.8 billion (down 0.4%).
  • Bard traffic increased to 8.7 million (up 2%).
  • Bing traffic increased to 42.7 million (up 8%)
  • ChatGPT traffic increased to 55 million (up 4%). An important reminder here – ChatGPT’s traffic is only 2% of Google’s web traffic.

Why we care. Generative AI is – and will continue to – reshape search as we know it. But false narratives aren’t helpful for anybody. Google is still as dominant as it has been since 2015. The impact of Google, ChatGPT and generative AI on search is a story for search marketers to watch. But for now, there’s nothing to see here.

The post No, ChatGPT isn’t stealing Google’s search market share appeared first on Search Engine Land.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/no-chatgpt-isnt-stealing-googles-search-market-share-434465

Meta unveils five new lead generation ad tools for Facebook and Instagram

Meta is adding new tools on Facebook and Instagram to help businesses get better leads.

The tech giant is rolling out five lead generation ad tools, AI features, and CRM partnerships, designed to improve campaign performance and save marketers time and money.

Why we care. Quality leads can save businesses time and resources as they have a greater chance of turning interest into actual sales. Given the higher likelihood of conversion, leveraging tools to optimize lead generation is crucial for marketers as this approach not only ensures more efficient campaigns but also maximizes the return on investment.

Click to WhatsApp Lead Gen: The lead objective is being extended to Facebook and Instagram ads that click to start a WhatsApp chat to help marketers nurture more quality leads with messaging. Select advertisers will have the option to add a Q&A flow in Ads Manager moving forward

Ads Manager

Instant form ad format. This feature lets users explore and connect with multiple businesses at once. For example, after signing up for a bridal hair trial, users can easily share their contact information with other relevant businesses, like a nail salon. It offers added convenience for users and more opportunities for small businesses to be discovered by interested customers.

Advertising

Calling leads on Facebook. Meta is testing this new feature that allows businesses to call people through Facebook to provide assurance and display their business information, including logo and name.

Advantage+ for Lead Gen: Meta is testing full campaign automation for lead generation campaigns, using Meta Advantage. Advertisers can apply AI to multiple campaign aspects simultaneously to “unlock greater performance while saving time and money.”

Hubspot. To support businesses in generating high-quality leads efficiently, Meta is introducing HubSpot as a new CRM integration partner, offering a straightforward click-through setup. Additionally, Meta is streamlining CRM integration with Zapier.

What Meta is saying. A spokesperson for Meta said in a statement:

  • “Integrating a CRM with the Conversions API, and using the conversion leads performance goalto optimize for lead quality, can boost campaign performance and help a business reach leads more likely to convert.”
  • “In a recent study, ads that used this campaign setup saw an average 16% reduction in cost per quality lead and 21% increase in rate of converting a lead to a quality lead, compared to ads using the leads performance goal.”

Deep dive. Read our 9-step guide on how to use Meta Ads for lead genertion for more information.

The post Meta unveils five new lead generation ad tools for Facebook and Instagram appeared first on Search Engine Land.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/meta-new-lead-generation-tools-facebook-instgram-434411

Meta unveils five new lead generation ad tools for Facebook and Instagram

Meta is adding new tools on Facebook and Instagram to help businesses get better leads.

The tech giant is rolling out five lead generation ad tools, AI features, and CRM partnerships, designed to improve campaign performance and save marketers time and money.

Why we care. Quality leads can save businesses time and resources as they have a greater chance of turning interest into actual sales. Given the higher likelihood of conversion, leveraging tools to optimize lead generation is crucial for marketers as this approach not only ensures more efficient campaigns but also maximizes the return on investment.

Click to WhatsApp Lead Gen: The lead objective is being extended to Facebook and Instagram ads that click to start a WhatsApp chat to help marketers nurture more quality leads with messaging. Select advertisers will have the option to add a Q&A flow in Ads Manager moving forward

Ads Manager

Instant form ad format. This feature lets users explore and connect with multiple businesses at once. For example, after signing up for a bridal hair trial, users can easily share their contact information with other relevant businesses, like a nail salon. It offers added convenience for users and more opportunities for small businesses to be discovered by interested customers.

Advertising

Calling leads on Facebook. Meta is testing this new feature that allows businesses to call people through Facebook to provide assurance and display their business information, including logo and name.

Advantage+ for Lead Gen: Meta is testing full campaign automation for lead generation campaigns, using Meta Advantage. Advertisers can apply AI to multiple campaign aspects simultaneously to “unlock greater performance while saving time and money.”

Hubspot. To support businesses in generating high-quality leads efficiently, Meta is introducing HubSpot as a new CRM integration partner, offering a straightforward click-through setup. Additionally, Meta is streamlining CRM integration with Zapier.

What Meta is saying. A spokesperson for Meta said in a statement:

  • “Integrating a CRM with the Conversions API, and using the conversion leads performance goalto optimize for lead quality, can boost campaign performance and help a business reach leads more likely to convert.”
  • “In a recent study, ads that used this campaign setup saw an average 16% reduction in cost per quality lead and 21% increase in rate of converting a lead to a quality lead, compared to ads using the leads performance goal.”

Deep dive. Read our 9-step guide on how to use Meta Ads for lead genertion for more information.

The post Meta unveils five new lead generation ad tools for Facebook and Instagram appeared first on Search Engine Land.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/meta-new-lead-generation-tools-facebook-instgram-434411

YouTube rolls out ‘For You’ feed to creators’ channels

YouTube is rolling out a personalized ‘For You’ section on the home tab of creators’ channels.

From November 20, whoever visists your channel will be greeted with a tailored list of recommended videos, comprising a “mix of content from your channel based on the viewer’s watch history.”

The platform is encouraging creators to review their settings and select formats before the launch.

Why we care. The ‘For You’ section has the potential to boost viewer engagement on your channel, opening the door to increased revenue. Additionally, it facilitates greater content discovery, amplifying brand awareness among your audience.

Retaining control. Creators can control this new feature by toggling it on or off in the channel settings. For more detailed customization, they can click “more settings” in the “recommendations for your viewers” section. From there, creators can choose to display only shorts, livestreams, or full videos—or a combination of two. They also have the option to include all content or just the most recent material.

Home Business

What YouTube is saying. A YouTube spokesperson said in a statement:

  • “The ‘For you’ section gives your audience a tailored experience when visiting your channel home tab.”
  • “This section surfaces a mix of personalised content based on what the individual viewer has watched. You can choose what types of content to show, as well as select to show only content recently posted within the past 12 months.”

Deep dive. Read YouTube’s guide on how to Customise your YouTube channel layout for more information.

The post YouTube rolls out ‘For You’ feed to creators’ channels appeared first on Search Engine Land.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/youtube-for-you-section-cretor-channels-434427

2024 brings the end of the third-party cookie. So now what? by Cynthia Ramsaran

How to remove sensitive client data from Google's index

Google announced some time ago that the third-party cookie would stop being supported by Chrome before the end of 2024. But all the drama around this topic has been lost in the sea of artificial intelligence hype.

Join experts from Acquia as they discuss what the end of the third-party cookie means for you and your business.

Learn more by registering and attending “2024: The End of the Third-Party Cookie. So, What Now?” presented by Acquia.

Click here to view more Search Engine Land webinars.

The post 2024 brings the end of the third-party cookie. So now what? appeared first on Search Engine Land.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/2024-brings-the-end-of-the-third-party-cookie-so-now-what-434423

The Dreadful Aftermath of a Car Crash

Home Business Magazine Online

Car crashes are distressing events that can have life-altering repercussions for everyone involved. While the initial impact grabs our attention, it’s the aftermath that truly unveils the full extent of the tragedy. The profound consequences of a car crash include the physical, emotional, and financial tolls it exacts on individuals and their families.

The Physical Toll

The aftermath of a car crash often brings physical pain. Injuries range from minor cuts to severe trauma, and the recovery process can be long and arduous. Even seemingly minor injuries like being bruised in a car accident can lead to long-term suffering. This affects not just the victims but also their caregivers. In many cases, caregivers are often family members providing essential support.

Emotional Trauma

Car crash survivors frequently endure fear, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Flashbacks, nightmares, and an ongoing sense of vulnerability haunt them. This impacts their daily lives and overall well-being. It can impact their social interactions, too. Therapy and counseling are often necessary to address these deep-seated emotional scars.

Impact on Families

Car crashes don’t stop affecting individuals; they disrupt entire families. Loved ones become caregivers, juggling the needs of the injured while coping with their own emotional distress. The financial strain resulting from the accident can destabilize families. This can potentially lead to financial hardship and stress. The stress can have a significant impact on the person’s family, as can a reduced amount of income or excess medical bills and other debt.

Financial Consequences

The financial aftermath of a car crash is often overwhelming. Medical bills, vehicle repair costs, legal fees, and lost income due to the victim’s inability to work can quickly lead to financial instability. Even with insurance, the complexity of navigating claims and reimbursements can exacerbate the situation, particularly for those with inadequate coverage.

Legal Battles

In some cases, car crash victims pursue legal action against negligent parties, adding further complexity to their ordeal. Legal battles involve gathering evidence and negotiating with insurance companies. They can also possibly mean going to court. The process is time-consuming and stressful. This can intensify the emotional strain experienced by victims and their families. A lawyer may be needed to obtain compensation from the at-fault party. In some cases, it can take years for the victim to receive the compensation they need to cover expenses from the accident.

Preventing Car Crashes

Preventing car crashes and their devastating aftermath is a shared responsibility. Drivers can reduce the risk of accidents by obeying traffic laws. They also should avoid distractions and refrain from driving under the influence. Advanced safety features in vehicles are now common. These may include automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. These can play a crucial role in minimizing the impact of crashes.

Education and awareness campaigns are key. Programs emphasizing safe driving habits, especially for young drivers, can significantly contribute to accident prevention. Stricter enforcement of traffic laws and penalties for reckless driving serve as effective deterrents, promoting a safer road environment for everyone. Talking about the causes of car accidents can also help alert drivers to the potential for something they do daily to end up causing a serious accident.

Conclusion

Car crashes leave a lasting impact that extends far beyond the moment of impact. Understanding the devastating consequences, both physical and emotional, is crucial. By emphasizing safe driving practices, raising awareness, and implementing stricter measures against reckless driving, society can work together to minimize the trauma associated with car crashes and create safer roads for everyone.

The post The Dreadful Aftermath of a Car Crash appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/lifestyles/health-and-fitness/dreadful-aftermath-car-crash/

Which Other Cryptocurrencies Are Widely Accepted in Bitcoin Casinos?

Home Business Magazine Online

Cryptocurrencies have brought a significant shift in the world of online gambling, particularly in the realm of online casinos. While Bitcoin remains the most popular cryptocurrency in this domain, many other digital currencies have gained wide acceptance.

When exploring the world of cryptocurrencies in online casinos, finding a reliable Bitcoin casino is crucial. These platforms often extend their cryptocurrency offerings to include various options, providing players with a broader gaming experience. Find a reliable Bitcoin casino that suits your preferences to enhance your online gambling journey.

Ethereum (ETH)

Ethereum, often called Bitcoin’s younger sibling, is one of the most popular cryptocurrencies accepted in online casinos. Its smart contract functionality allows for innovative gaming applications, including decentralized casinos and unique betting experiences.

Ethereum’s fast transaction times and growing popularity make it an attractive choice for players and casino operators.

Litecoin (LTC)

Litecoin, created as a lighter version of Bitcoin, is another cryptocurrency commonly used in online casinos. Its faster block generation time ensures quicker transactions, which is advantageous in the fast-paced world of online gambling. Litecoin’s widespread acceptance and lower transaction fees make it a preferred choice for many players.

Ripple (XRP)

Ripple, known for its focus on facilitating cross-border payments, is also gaining traction in online casinos.

Some casinos accept Ripple due to its ability to provide efficient and cost-effective transactions. While not as popular as Bitcoin or Ethereum in the casino industry, Ripple’s unique features make it an intriguing option for players seeking alternatives.

Bitcoin Cash (BCH)

Bitcoin Cash emerged from a contentious hard fork from the original Bitcoin blockchain. It is designed to offer faster and cheaper transactions, making it suitable for online gambling. Bitcoin Cash has found its way into various online casinos, appealing to players looking for a Bitcoin alternative with lower fees.

Dogecoin (DOGE)

Initially created as a meme cryptocurrency, Dogecoin has become a viable option in the online casino world. Due to its low transaction fees and friendly community, some casinos now accept Dogecoin for deposits and withdrawals. It’s a lighthearted choice for players who enjoy cryptocurrency’s unique cultural appeal.

Cardano (ADA)

Cardano, known for its focus on sustainability and scalability, is gradually making its presence felt in the online gambling industry. Its advanced smart contract capabilities may open doors to innovative casino games and platforms. While not as prevalent as Bitcoin or Ethereum, Cardano’s potential for growth in the casino sector is worth noting.

Key Takeaways

While Bitcoin remains the dominant cryptocurrency in online casinos, many platforms are embracing alternative digital currencies. Each of the cryptocurrencies mentioned above offers unique features and benefits, appealing to different players and operators.

However, players must thoroughly research before choosing a cryptocurrency for online gambling. Factors such as transaction speed, security, and the availability of games that accept these currencies should all be considered. As cryptocurrency evolves, more options will likely become available for players seeking a diverse and exciting online casino experience.

The post Which Other Cryptocurrencies Are Widely Accepted in Bitcoin Casinos? appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/money/cryptocurrency/cryptocurrencies-accepted-bitcoin-casinos/

Which Other Cryptocurrencies Are Widely Accepted in Bitcoin Casinos?

Home Business Magazine Online

Cryptocurrencies have brought a significant shift in the world of online gambling, particularly in the realm of online casinos. While Bitcoin remains the most popular cryptocurrency in this domain, many other digital currencies have gained wide acceptance.

When exploring the world of cryptocurrencies in online casinos, finding a reliable Bitcoin casino is crucial. These platforms often extend their cryptocurrency offerings to include various options, providing players with a broader gaming experience. Find a reliable Bitcoin casino that suits your preferences to enhance your online gambling journey.

Ethereum (ETH)

Ethereum, often called Bitcoin’s younger sibling, is one of the most popular cryptocurrencies accepted in online casinos. Its smart contract functionality allows for innovative gaming applications, including decentralized casinos and unique betting experiences.

Ethereum’s fast transaction times and growing popularity make it an attractive choice for players and casino operators.

Litecoin (LTC)

Litecoin, created as a lighter version of Bitcoin, is another cryptocurrency commonly used in online casinos. Its faster block generation time ensures quicker transactions, which is advantageous in the fast-paced world of online gambling. Litecoin’s widespread acceptance and lower transaction fees make it a preferred choice for many players.

Ripple (XRP)

Ripple, known for its focus on facilitating cross-border payments, is also gaining traction in online casinos.

Some casinos accept Ripple due to its ability to provide efficient and cost-effective transactions. While not as popular as Bitcoin or Ethereum in the casino industry, Ripple’s unique features make it an intriguing option for players seeking alternatives.

Bitcoin Cash (BCH)

Bitcoin Cash emerged from a contentious hard fork from the original Bitcoin blockchain. It is designed to offer faster and cheaper transactions, making it suitable for online gambling. Bitcoin Cash has found its way into various online casinos, appealing to players looking for a Bitcoin alternative with lower fees.

Dogecoin (DOGE)

Initially created as a meme cryptocurrency, Dogecoin has become a viable option in the online casino world. Due to its low transaction fees and friendly community, some casinos now accept Dogecoin for deposits and withdrawals. It’s a lighthearted choice for players who enjoy cryptocurrency’s unique cultural appeal.

Cardano (ADA)

Cardano, known for its focus on sustainability and scalability, is gradually making its presence felt in the online gambling industry. Its advanced smart contract capabilities may open doors to innovative casino games and platforms. While not as prevalent as Bitcoin or Ethereum, Cardano’s potential for growth in the casino sector is worth noting.

Key Takeaways

While Bitcoin remains the dominant cryptocurrency in online casinos, many platforms are embracing alternative digital currencies. Each of the cryptocurrencies mentioned above offers unique features and benefits, appealing to different players and operators.

However, players must thoroughly research before choosing a cryptocurrency for online gambling. Factors such as transaction speed, security, and the availability of games that accept these currencies should all be considered. As cryptocurrency evolves, more options will likely become available for players seeking a diverse and exciting online casino experience.

The post Which Other Cryptocurrencies Are Widely Accepted in Bitcoin Casinos? appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/money/cryptocurrency/cryptocurrencies-accepted-bitcoin-casinos/

All the things you can get financial help with (Updated)

Financial Help

Claimants of Universal Credit could be due thousands worth of extra financial of extra help, but may not be aware of it.

Low income Brits are struggling with their household budgets in the face of rising costs – from household bills like gas and electricity to food and general cost of living – but they could get up to thirty different kinds of assistance.

Universal Credit claimants almost doubled during the pandemic to 6 million Brits, and more than a third of these are working but claiming from the Department for Work and Pensions because their income is not high enough on its own. Benefits than can be claimed include Council Tax reduction.

Shockingly, 15 billion pounds of benefit money is lost every year by not being claimed, with pensioners missing out the most. More than a quarter of million older people also don’t claim Housing Benefit which could save them £4,000 per year.

A complete list of help available…

Experts say one of the main problems remains that there is a stigma attached to asking for help, although people may genuinely not be aware that this help is available. So here’s a list of benefits you could be claiming to help you through hard times, each one is linked to more information:

Reduced council tax bills

You could be eligible if you’re on a low income or claim benefits. Your bill could be reduced by up to 100%.

You can apply if you own your home, rent, are unemployed or working. What you get depends on where you live, your individual circumstances, such as your income, the number of children you have, the benefits you receive, etc, your entire household income, whether your children live with you and whether other adults live with you.

Capped water bills

If you live in England or Wales, are on certain benefits, have a water meter and use a lot of water because you either have a medical condition or three or more children, you could claim financial aid. This is called the Water Sure scheme.

People who meet the criteria for help may have their water bill capped at the amount of the average household water bill for their water company, or in some cases, even less.

Half price bus

You may get free or reduced price travel with the Statutory English National Concessionary Travel Scheme pass. The scheme provides travel for free on local bus services anywhere in England, between 9:30am and 11pm during weekdays and anytime on weekends and bank holidays.

DISCOUNTED RAIL FARES

There are a range of railcards available that offer discounts on rail travel. These include the 16-25 railcard, the family and friends railcard, the senior railcard and more. Find out which railcard suits you here.

Free or discounted gym membership

You may be eligible for free or concessionary memberships at your local gym or leisure centre if you claim:

  • Housing benefit
  • Income Support
  • Job Seekers’ Allowance
  • Working Families Tax Credit
  • Carers Allowance
  • Universal Credit

Help with new job costs

Going back to work does not mean giving up all your benefits. Some benefits may carry on, and others may become available once you’re working.

You should contact Jobcentre Plus if you’ve found a job and you or your partner have been getting Jobseeker’s Allowance, Employment Allowance, Income Support or Universal Credit.

Your work coach will help you to manage your move into work, and sort out changes to your other benefits, including tax credits. What you can get will depend on how long you were claiming these benefits without a break.

Warm Home Discount

You could get £140 off your electricity bill for winter 2021 to 2022 under the Warm Home Discount Scheme. This is a one-off discount on your electricity bill, between October and March. There are 2 ways you could qualify for the Warm Home Discount Scheme.

The first, is if you get the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit, the second is if you’re on a low income and meet your energy supplier’s criteria for the scheme.

Cold Weather Payments

If you are eligible for Cold Weather Payments, you will get a payment if the average temperature in your area is recorded as, or forecast to be, zero degrees celsius or below over 7 consecutive days. You will receive £25 for each 7 day period of very cold weather between 1 November and 31 March.

Free or cheap broadband from TalkTalk, Virgin Media and BT

Do you know about Social Tariffs? Ofcom has discovered that millions of families struggling with the rising cost of living could save £144 each on their annual broadband costs.

Free prescriptions for people on low incomes

Some groups are automatically entitled to free NHS prescriptions. Others can apply for certificates that entitle them to free NHS prescriptions. Some prescribed items are always free, including contraceptives and medication given to hospital inpatients.

Free dental treatment

You may be eligible for free dental treatment if you receive Universal Credit and either had no earnings or had net earnings of £435 or less in your last Universal Credit assessment period, or if you or your partner had limited capability for work, and you either had no earnings or net earnings of £935 or less in your last Universal Credit assessment period.

Eye tests and discounted glasses

You’re entitled to a free NHS sight test if you are under 16, between 16 and 18 years old or are in full time education. You are also eligible if you are over the age of 60. If you are registered as partially sighted, blind, have diabetes or glaucoma, you are also entitled to a free sight test.

Similarly, if you are over the age of 40 and a close family member has been diagnosed with glaucoma or have been advised by an eye doctor you are at risk of glaucoma, you are eligible.

You are also entitled if you or your partner  receive, or are the dependant of someone receiving:

  • Income Support
  • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
  • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
  • Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
  • Universal Credit and meet the criteria

Free school transport

You may be able to get help with home to school transport for your child. You can search for your postcode here, to see the help available in your area.

Free school meals

Your child may be able to get free school meals if you get any of the following:

  • Income Support
  • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
  • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
  • Child Tax Credit
  • Working Tax Credit
  • Universal Credit

Discounted childcare costs

You may be able to claim back up to 85% of your childcare costs if you’re eligible for Universal Credit. The most you can get back each month from childcare costs is £646 for one child and £1108 for 2 or more children.

£150 towards school uniforms

This is dependent on your local authority. Check if your local council provides help with the cost of school uniform and sports kit. If your council does not offer help, you can ask your child’s school directly.

£1,200 free cash as part of the Government’s Help to Save scheme

Saving when you’re on a low income seems impossible – but with the Government’s Help to Save account, it’s not only possible but lands you with a whopping 50% bonus.

Food vouchers for kids as part of the Healthy Start scheme

You may qualify for the Healthy Start scheme if you’re at least 10 weeks pregnant or you have at least one child that’s under 4. In addition, you must be receiving at least of the following benefits:

  • Child Tax Credit
  • Income Support
  • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
  • Pension Credit
  • Universal Credit

Maternity grant up to £1,000

You could get a one-off payment of £500 to help towards the costs of having a child. This is known as a Sure Start Maternity Grant. You usually qualify for the grant if you are expecting your first child, or you’re expecting a multiple birth and have children already. You or your partner must also be in receipt of certain benefits.

Disabled Facilities Grant (up to £30,000) to make changes to a home

You could be eligible for a grant from your council if you’re disabled and need to make changes to your home, such as widening doors and installing ramps, improving access to certain rooms and facilities, providing an essential heating system or adapting lighting and heating controls.

Homeowners can apply for up to £10,000 to pay for a boiler

You may be eligible for a boiler grant if your current boiler is over 5 years old and you claim one of the 16 benefits listed here.

help to pay for double glazing as part of the Green Homes Scheme

On 8th July 2020, the Chancellor announced a Green Homes Grant available in England, Wales, and Scotland. This scheme enables landlords and homeowners to fund, or partially fund, costs of upgrading their homes’ energy performance.

Up to £300 in Winter Fuel Payments

If you were born on or before 26 September 1955 you could get between £100 and £300 to help you pay your heating bills.

Free wigs or fabric support provided by the NHS

You can get free wigs and fabric supports if you are:

  • under 16
  • 16-18 and in full-time education
  • a hospital inpatient
  • a war pensioner and the wig or fabric support is for your accepted disablement and you have a valid war pension exemption certificate

You may also be eligible if you receive certain benefits.

Free health travel costs

f you’re referred to hospital or other NHS premises for specialist NHS treatment or diagnostic tests by a doctor, dentist or another primary care health professional, you may be able to claim a refund of reasonable travel costs under the Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme (HTCS).

Help with housing costs

You may be eligible for housing benefit. This helps with the cost of your rent. Housing Benefit will not cover heating, hot water, energy or food. If you need help, use a benefits calculator to check what else you might be entitled to.

Help with funeral costs

You can get a Funeral Expenses Payment if you get certain benefits or tax credits, you meet the rules on your relationship with the deceased and you’re arranging a funeral in the UK, the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland.

Bereavement support payments

You may be able to get Bereavement Support Payment if your husband, wife or civil partner died in the last 21 months. This must be claimed within 3 months of your partner’s death to get the full amount. You can claim up to 21 months after their death but you’ll get fewer monthly payments.

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