Get help with savings if you’re on a low income (Help to Save)
How it works
Help to Save is a type of savings account. It allows certain people entitled to Working Tax Credit or receiving Universal Credit (external link) to get a bonus of 50p for every £1 they save over 4 years.
Help to Save is backed by the government so all savings in the scheme are secure.
How payments work
You can save between £1 and £50 each calendar month. You do not have to pay money in every month.
You can pay money into your Help to Save account by debit card, standing order or bank transfer.
You can pay in as many times as you like, but the most you can pay in each calendar month is £50. For example, if you have saved £50 by 8 January you will not be able to pay in again until 1 February.
You can only withdraw money from your Help to Save account to your bank account.
How bonuses work
You get bonuses at the end of the second and fourth years (external link). They’re based on how much you’ve saved.
What happens after 4 years
Your Help to Save account will close 4 years after you open it. You will not be able to reopen it or open another Help to Save account. You’ll be able to keep the money from your account.
You can close your account at any time. If you close your account early you’ll miss your next bonus and you will not be able to open another one.