hi thanks for your advice, ive checked that tax credits doesnt take into any loans/bursaries as income but housing benefit does. it states that even if you dont take the maintenance loan out its still classed as income which is a bit ridiculous and according to nhs im entitled to a couple of things that isnt classed as income.aaaarrrghhhh!! think i will just apply for all that im entitled to, see what they allow for me then go from there. i cant be worse off then i am now, i pay full council tax and only get £20 towards £65 rent on a part time wage. i just want to be able to afford all the books i need, etc