Universal Credit

Universal Credit

Universal Credit - It’s happening and could affect you

What is Universal Credit?

Universal Credit has been designed so people on a variety of benefits can receive a single monthly payment, merging together benefit payments and tax credits with the aim of simplifying the process for everyone. Most people on benefits should now have transferred to Universal Credit, which is expected to complete its full transition by 2024.

Universal Credit replaces the following six benefits:

  • Income-based Jobseekers’ Allowance
  • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
  • Income support
  • Child Tax Credit
  • Working Tax Credit
  • Housing Benefit

If you are already claiming one or more of these benefits, you should carry on claiming as normal. You will be told when you need to do anything differently.

Will it affect me?

People claiming all other benefits, such as those listed below, will remain outside of Universal Credit and will not be affected by these changes:

  • Attendance carers’ and disability living allowance
  • Pension Credits
  • Personal Independence payments
  • State retirement pensions
  • Contributory job seekers’ allowance or employment support allowances
  • Bereavement benefits
  • Maternity allowances
  • Local council tax support schemes
  • Statutory sick, maternity, paternity or adoption pay.

If you and your partner are above pension credit age you will not be affected. People living in supported housing or sheltered housing are also not affected.

What’s different about Universal Credit?

Here are the main differences: 

  • You claim Online
  • You update your circumstances online every month
  • You receive one Universal credit payment instead of six different benefits
  • If you live with your partner and you both get Universal Credit, you’ll get one monthly payment between you.

 Other items to be aware and consider:

  • Your first payment could take up to six weeks to be paid
  •  It is paid monthly and there’s just one payment per household
  • Your payment is usually paid direct into your own bank account
  • You pay your own rent- in most cases it won’t be paid direct to us
  • If you’re making a Universal Credit claim, please let the Society know straight away

Tips to help prepare for Universal Credit

1. Open a bank account with a Direct Debit facility

You will need a bank account in order to receive Universal Credit. Direct Debit makes sure your rent is paid automatically, so you don't have to worry about remembering it.
 

2. Get Online

Universal Credit must be claimed online, so you'll need access to the internet. If you are unemployed you'll be expected to search for jobs online using Universal Jobs Match.

  • You can access the internet at a Job Centre or at your local Online Centre. The Post Office can give you a list of your 5 nearest free centres.
  • If you need to brush up on your computer skills, call UK Online on 0800 771 234 or visitwww.ukonlinecentres.com. They can help you find courses near where you live.
  • Getting online also helps you find the cheapest deals, stay in touch with friends & family and check your bank account.

3. Budget your money

Setting a sensible spending budget helps ensure you won't run out of money before your next payment is due.

Universal Credit Helpline - 0800 328 9344