From mid-October, the Gateshead residents will have to apply for a new Government benefit.
The Government is introducing the new benefit - called Universal Credit - in the borough. And it will replace current benefits such as Income Support, Income-related Jobseekers Allowance, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Housing Benefit, Working Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit.
Most people who have would have applied for one of these benefits will have to claim Universal Credit instead.
Universal Credit is paid monthly in arrears and is made up of one amount which covers daily living needs and help towards housing costs. It could be up to six weeks after applying before you receive a payment.
You will therefore need to make sure you manage your money so that you have enough to last you through until the next payment.
Applications for Universal Credit must be made online.
Before making a claim you will need to have a bank account, an email address and documents to confirm your identity.
Once you have applied, you will have a Universal Credit your Jobcentre work coach will tell you if you if you need to do anything.
For more information and how to apply visit www.gov.uk/universal-credit
Further information and details of where to go for help and advice will also be available on the Council's website at www.gateshead.gov.uk/benefits, or from your local Jobcentre