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Universal Credit

Information about Universal Credit, a payment to help with your living costs

About Universal Credit

Universal Credit is a payment to help with your living costs. It’s paid monthly in arrears.

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

If you already get other benefits

Universal Credit is replacing 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 get any of these benefits, you do not need to do anything unless:

  • you have a change of circumstances you need to report
  • the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) contacts you about moving to Universal Credit

SEND information - part of our Local Offer

Severe disability premium

Universal Credit is a digital service, claims are made and maintained online. For more information, or to make a claim, please visit the GOV.UK website.

If you get tax credits, they will stop when you or your partner applies for Universal Credit. Check how tax credits and Universal Credit affect each other.

Last reviewed: March 25, 2024 by Adam

Next review due: September 25, 2024

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