Universal credit is a financial benefit payment which is funded and paid by the UK government.
It exists to support people on a low income or who need help with living costs.
The universal credit system replaces the following six tax credits and benefits:
The DWP are calling these benefits and tax credits legacy benefits because they are gradually being replaced by universal credit.
If you were in receipt of any legacy benefits or tax credits before the start of universal credit system the DWP (department work and pensions) may ask you to move to universal credit.
You should not need to take any action if your circumstances don’t change and you are not asked by the DWP to migrate to universal credit.
To be eligible to claim universal credit you must meet certain criteria.
You must:
If you live with a partner they will need to claim universal credit as well even if they are not eligible. This is because how much you may receive will depend on your partner’s circumstances and not just your own.
Calculating the value of universal credit for you depends on your own set of circumstances including anyone else that lives in your household.
There are a number of criteria which effect how much universal credit you will be granted.
It’s a good idea to check to see what you may be due before making a claim for universal credit so you can
You can calculate what you may be entitled to by using a benefits calculator which is free and anonymous to use.
You can calculate the value of your universal credit claim and find out what will happen if you increase your work hours or your circumstances change in a different way after you have claimed.
The universal credit standard allowance will be paid once per household on a monthly basis. Your age and living arrangements effect how much universal credit you will be rewarded.
If you are living with a partner the monthly universal credit payment covers both claimants in your household.
For eligible applicants with children you can receive an extra amount of universal credit.
If you have a child that is disabled you will be eligible for an extra amount with no limit to the number of children you have.
Universal credit can cover 85% of the cost of childcare including after school, breakfast and holiday clubs.
To be eligible you must be working and if you live with a partner they must be working too (unless they are unable to look after your children).
The maximum amount you can claim back for childcare costs is £1014.63 for one child and £1739.37 for two or more children per month.
Students or a person in training may qualify for universal credit.
To qualify for universal credit as a student you must be:
If you are under the age of 21 a claim for universal credit is possible if you are studying for any qualification up to A level (or equivalent) and don’t have parental support.
A claim may also be possible if you are doing a course or studying part time and a student loan or finance option is not available.
You can call the universal credit helpline for assistance and citizens advice offer support through their help to claim service.
Universal credit helpline number 0800 328 5644.
Citizens advice help to claim service can be contacted on 0800 144 8 444. Citizens advice have trained advisors who can help you check your eligibility, collect necessary documents and complete your online application.
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