Universal credit
What is Universal Credit?
Universal Credit does not replace Council Tax Reduction. If you require help with your Council Tax, please visit our benefits page.
Universal Credit is a new benefit for people of working age who are out of work or are working and on a low income. It is assessed and paid by the Department for Work and Pensions(DWP).
Universal Credit replaces the following benefits:
- Income-based Job Seekers Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Income Support
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Housing Benefit
These are known as legacy benefits.
Universal Credit is a single monthly payment made to you or your partner.
People who can still claim housing benefit
Some people can still claim housing benefit for help towards their rent:
- if you live in temporary accommodation provided by the council you will continue to claim Housing Benefit for help towards the rent. You will need to claim Universal Credit for help with your living costs
- if you live in supported accommodation you will continue to claim Housing Benefit for help towards your rent. Support accommodation is usually accommodation where there is a charge for care and personal support included in the rent. You will need to claim Universal Credit for help with your living costs
- If you are of state pension age or if you are part of a couple where both members of the couple are of state pension age
If you are currently in receipt of legacy benefits, and do not need to make a new claim, you will not be migrated to Universal Credit until at least July 2020. Full migration details will be provided as soon as they are released by the Department for Work and Pensions.
How do I apply?
Universal Credit is digital by default, this means that claims can only be accepted on-line. If you require support to make your online claim, your Work Coach will refer you to the Council for assistance.
If you can make your claim on-line but do not have access to the internet at home, you can use the facilities available at Job Centre Plus and local libraries.
For more information please visit Universal Credit