Universal Credit & Related Benefits

We are seeing many more people transferring to Universal Credit (UC) which brings together six benefits - Child Tax Credits, Housing Benefit, Income Support, Income-based Job Seekers Allowance, Income -Related Employment Support Allowance & Working Tax Credits - that used to be paid individually.

The government is gradually moving everyone who receives these benefits across to UC. Often this will happen when you notify a change in your circumstances, but you may also get a 'migration notice' which lets you know that this change of benefits is about to be made.

To be eligible for UC, you will need to be over 18 but under state retirement age and on a low income, out of work or be unable to work, with less than £16,000 in savings. If you claim pension credit, this will usually stop you receiving UC but other benefits - like a Personal Independence Payment (PiP) wont affect it. If you live with a partner, you will both need to apply - even if your partner is not eligible.

If you receive payments, you will need to enter into something called a claimant commitment - basically a contract about what you agree to do in return for receiving help. If you need to look for work, you will be assigned a work coach who will help you to achieve this. All UC claims and payments are managed online. You will get help with this but if you are struggling, please get in touch with us and we will also try to support you.

You can get more information about UC and Housing Costs here UC & Housing Costs You can see what current payment levels are here What You Get To find out if you are eligible you can use the benefits calculator available at Benefits calculators

Typically, there is a 5-week wait before you will receive your first UC payment, so it is important your budget accordingly.  If the change in benefits is going to negatively affect you, you can sometimes get and advance payment or get help from the local authority through a discretionary housing payment. UC payments are usually made monthly.

It is your responsibility to keep UC updated with any changes to your circumstances, e.g. rent increases, increase/decrease in wages, etc, and to pay your own rent. UC may sanction you if you do not keep them updated.  It is also really important to keep us updated about any changes in your UC entitlement and ensure your rent payments are met in accordance with your tenancy agreement.

For further assistance you can contact the Universal Credit helpline on:
Telephone: 0800 328 5644
Textphone: 0800 328 1344

Online: Through your work coach or journal

In person: At the job centre

Paying Your Rent
You will be responsible for paying your own rent out of the money you receive from UC. You can sometimes have the rent element of your UC paid directly to us and this helps lots of people to manage their budget - as it is clear what is left for other costs. Contact your Housing Officer for help with making direct payments.

If you don't keep up your payments, your home will be at risk. It is important that you seek help from us at the earliest opportunity and we will do all we can to help you to get back on track.