# What is Help to Save and who can get it?

> Quick answer · Last updated 6 April 2026

Canonical HTML: https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/what-is-help-to-save/
Markdown mirror: https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/what-is-help-to-save.md

## In short

A government savings account paying a 50p bonus on every £1 saved over four years, worth up to £1,200. Open to people receiving Working Tax Credit or Universal Credit with earnings over a small monthly threshold.

You can save between £1 and £50 a month for up to four years. The government pays a 50% bonus on the highest balance you reach in years 1–2 (paid at year 2) and on the increase between years 2–4 (paid at year 4).

The maximum bonus is £1,200 (£600 + £600) on £2,400 saved. The account is run by NS&I, the money is fully government-backed, and bonuses are tax-free and ignored for benefit calculations.

Help to Save has been extended to April 2027. You apply through your Government Gateway account on gov.uk.

## Related

- [Savings & ISAs guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk/savings/)

## Primary source

gov.uk/get-help-savings-low-income

---

Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.