Universal Credit | GOV.UK

What is Universal Credit?

Universal Credit is a monthy payment to help with your living costs. 

You may be able to get it if you’re on a low income or out of work.

Whether you can claim Universal Credit depends on where you live and your circumstances.

Am I eligible and what will I get?

Your eligibility to claim Universal Credit and what you will get depends on where you live and your personal circumstances. Please see the website for more information.

If you already get benefits

Universal Credit will replace the following benefits:

  • Child Tax Credit
  • Housing Benefit
  • Income Support
  • income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
  • income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
  • Working Tax Credit

If you currently receive any of these benefits, you can’t claim Universal Credit at the same time.

Universal Credit is being introduced in stages across the UK. You don’t need to do anything until you hear from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) about moving to Universal Credit, unless you have a change in circumstances.

How do I claim?

You need to apply for Universal Credit online.

You have to apply as a couple if you and your partner live together. You don’t need to be married.

After you apply, you must contact your local Jobcentre Plus within 7 days to make an appointment with a work coach.

You won’t get Universal Credit if you don’t attend the appointment.

Childcare Element

Universal Credit includes a childcare costs element for those who are working and paying for childcare which is available to parents even if they only work a few hours a week.  As Universal Credit is being introduced in stages, when you can claim depends on where you live and your personal circumstances. If you currently claim the childcare element of Working Tax Credit, you will be told when you will be moving over to Universal Credit and what you need to do. You can claim back up to 85% of actual paid for childcare costs through Universal Credit. There are new requirements for being able to claim Universal Credit depending on the age of your child and your personal circumstances.

Who to contact

Telephone
0800 328 5644 (helpline) | 0800 328 1344 (textline) 0800 328 5644 (helpline) | 0800 328 1344 (textline)
Website
http://www.gov.uk
Scan to visit this website

Time / Date Details

When is it on
Helpline is open Monday to Friday - 8.00am to 6.00pm

Related Links

Links
Sign in to your Universal Credit account (Gov.UK)
Universal Credit eligibility checker (Citizens Advice)
Understanding Universal Credit

Actions

Save to Shortlist

Last Updated

Last updated:

Skip back to top of page