What kind of benefits can I claim?
The government is in the process of moving people from “legacy benefits” (this means Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance and others) to Universal Credit.
Universal Credit is the benefit that most people in the UK claim, as it has been designed to support people who are unemployed, on low incomes, unable to work due to illness or disability, or caring for dependents. It combines several previous benefit types into one monthly payment (sometimes divided into two payments for people living in Scotland).
The Department for Work & Pensions (DWP) and most local authorities have adopted Universal Credit as standard, so you’ll be directed to apply for Universal Credit when you make a new claim.
I'm on benefits, will I be moved to Universal Credit?
The government wants to move everyone over to Universal Credit by 2024. You might be moved over earlier if:
- You've had a change in circumstances: If your claim has changed, you'll be moved onto Universal Credit
- The DWP writes to you asking if you'd like to move: You can agree to this change
- You claim from your local authority: they are moving to Universal Credit as standard for the claims they manage
It has been agreed that if a UC payment would be lower than your current benefits, you would receive a top-up
Visit Gov.UK for more information.