What is universal credit?
Universal credit is a new single, monthly payment, introduced by government, which is replacing a number of existing benefits and tax credits, including housing benefit.
If you’re of working age and your circumstances change, you will need to claim universal credit online. It can then take 6-8 weeks to receive your first payment so don’t delay!
Universal credit will replace:
- income-based job seekers allowance
- income-based employment and support allowance
- income support
- child tax credit and working tax credit
- housing benefit
Getting help to apply for Universal Credit
The Citizens Advice Help to Claim service can support you in the early stages of your Universal Credit claim, from the online application, through to support with your application before your first full payment.
It’s a free, independent, confidential and impartial service provided by trained advisers from Citizens Advice. They can help with things like how to gather evidence for your application or how to prepare for your work coach appointment.
Call for free:
0800 144 8 444 (England)
08000 241 220 (Wales)
Get support online or find your nearest service at citizensadvice.org.uk/helptoclaim.
How is universal credit different to the current benefits system?
Universal credit brings together multiple benefits into one payment, which will be paid directly to you, every month, into your bank or building society or post office account. This means that you will need to now pay your rent directly to us.
The easiest way to pay your rent is by direct debit. Find out how to set up a direct debit here.
The government have also produced this online tool to help you see how universal credit is different to other benefits and how you can best prepare.