Universal Credit

If you receive any of the benefits listed below, they will eventually be replaced by a single benefit called Universal Credit. (opens new window).

• Job Seeker's Allowance (Income Based)
• Employment and Support Allowance (Income Related)
• Income Support
• Working Tax Credit
• Child Tax Credit
• Housing Benefit

Universal Credit. (opens new window) is paid as a single monthly payment and administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) (opens new window).

Do I need to do anything?

If you are already claiming one of the benefits listed above, you'll be told when you need to change over and make a claim for Universal Credit instead. You will need to claim Universal Credit unless you fall within one of the groups listed below:

• You and your partner are of state pension age; or
• You are living in specified accommodation.

You cannot claim Housing Benefit unless you fall within one of these groups.

Making a claim for Universal Credit

You need to make a claim for Universal Credit online. If you do not have a computer or access to the internet, find out where your nearest public access computer is and what support is available at each location to help you apply.