Universal Credit is a mean-tested benefit for people of working age only, who are on a low income or unemployed.
It is intended to simplify the current benefit system by introducing one monthly payment instead of the current system where payments can be received from different sources and at different frequencies.
You cannot backdate your Universal Credit claim so it is important that you make your claim as soon as possible.
Please use our benefits calculator to see which benefits you may be entitled to before applying for Universal Credit.
Universal Credit is a means tested benefit. This means that your income and savings are taken into consideration when applying.
To make a claim for Universal Credit, you will need to complete an application form on the GOV.UK website.
Apply for Universal Credit online - GOV.UK
You might also need to book and attend an interview at your local Jobcentre Plus. You’ll be told if you need to after you apply.
You’ll get your first payment around 5 weeks after applying online if your application is successful. When you apply, you can ask for an advance if you need help sooner.
You can get advice by calling the Universal Credit Service Helpline on 0345 600 0723.
Universal Credit is a working age benefit and therefore can not be claimed by anyone who has reached state pension credit age.
The minimum age for claiming Universal Credit is 16 years of age. If you are 16 or 17 you must meet the following criteria:
The following benefits and tax credits are ending and being replaced by Universal Credit, under a single monthly payment: Housing Benefit, Income Support, Income-Based Job Seekers Allowance (JSA), Income-Related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Working Tax Credits and Child Tax Credits.
From April 2024, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is writing to some people who receive these benefits to let them know that they need to claim Universal Credit instead, to ensure they still continue receiving financial support.
This letter is called a Migration Notice and explains what you need to do and when. It also provides information on the help available to continue receiving support from the government. Find out when you are likely to be asked to move to Universal Credit.
You do not need to take any action until you receive your Migration Notice letter. When you do, it is important to check the date you will need to claim by as DWP will not move you to Universal Credit automatically.
Your current benefits will end as soon as you submit your claim for Universal Credit and you will not be able to go back to your existing benefit once you have claimed. Please note if you are in Temporary Accommodation or specified Supported Accommodation, you will not be affected by this change.
Your letter will explain what you need to do next and provides information on the help available to prevent you from missing out on financial support from the government.
If you need help with your Universal Credit application or have concerns about managing your income, support and advice is available.