Universal Credit

Universal Credit

This is a basic guide to Universal Credit, who it applies to and where to find further support and information. 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR RESIDENTS IN NEWCASTLE

From Early January 2024, The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) are writing to people claiming one or more of the following "Legacy" benefits asking them to make a claim for Universal Credit:

  • Tax Credits
  • Income-Based Jobseekers Allowance (JSA)
  • Income-Related Employment Support Allowance (ESA)
  • Income Support
  • Housing Benefit

These letters are called "Migration Notices".  If you get one of these letters you need to make a claim for Universal Credit before the deadline date given on your letter.  If you do not make a claim by this deadline date your current benefits will stop.

Our new page concentrates on the move to Universal Credit, how it is happening, if you have a choice, if you would be better off on Universal Credit - or not and where to get help

 

What is Universal Credit? 

Universal Credit is a single monthly payment for people in or out of work.  It is replacing Tax Credits, Income-Based Jobseekers Allowance, Income-Related Employment Support Allowance, Income Support and Housing Benefit.

How to claim and manage Universal Credit

You are expected to claim and manage your Universal Credit online

This includes notifying any changes in circumstances online and also Jobcentre Plus notifying you online of any actions you have to take. Remember, you must do these actions or you may lose money

If you cannot manage online you can make the claim over the phone

If you have difficulties with claiming online, see 'Extra help and support with Universal Credit - including in Newcastle' below

How Universal Credit affects those not in full time work (work related requirements)

To get Universal Credit you and any partner may have to take part in ‘work-related activity’, such as looking and applying for work. The level of activity depends on various circumstances and is decided when you agree your Claimant Commitment and at ongoing interviews. Even if you are working you may be expected to do such activity, depending on the level of your earnings

These work-related requirements have to be ‘reasonable’, and you can ask for them to be revised, but if you fail to comply, your Universal Credit can be reduced for a certain length of time (called a sanction).  

More details 

Other benefits, help and general rules

Universal Credit is replacing six benefits but others continue to be paid and interact in various ways with Universal Credit

All other benefits continue, including contribution based Jobseekers Allowance, contributory Employment and Support Allowance, disability benefits, pension age benefits and many others. See our benefits information page for more information on all these benefits

You can get free school meals and help towards health costs if you are on Universal Credit and earn below a set amount

As with other benefits you can challenge most Universal Credit decisions

Universal Credit is not replacing Council Tax Support.  You can make an application for Council Tax Support or find information about it on our Council Tax Support page.

More details 

Extra help and support with Universal Credit - including in Newcastle

Some people may have serious difficulties with the way that Universal Credit is paid and claimed, such as being paid monthly, in arrears and to one person in a couple, with housing costs being paid to the claimant and having to claim it online. In recognition of this the government allow temporary easements, such as the housing costs being paid direct to the landlord and are also working with local authorities and others to support people, such as online claim support

If you need help claiming or support with Universal Credit see our webpage:  Universal Credit - support in Newcastle

More details 

Related Pages

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