How it works
Universal Credit is a monthly payment and is replacing the following benefits:
- Housing Benefit
- Jobseekers Allowance (income based)
- Employment and Support Allowance (income related)
- Income Support
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit
If you want to make a new claim for benefits, you will need to make a claim for Universal Credit instead.
If you are already receiving one or more of these benefits
Your local Jobcentre Plus or Tax Credits office will be letting you know when you will be moving onto Universal Credit.
How to claim Universal Credit
To make a claim, you will need to apply for Universal Credit on the GOV.UK website.
If you do not have access to the internet, you can get help making your claim from Citizens Advice.
Get help with your Universal Credit application on the Citizen Advice website
If your benefits do not cover your full rent
A Discretionary Housing payment can be made to help make up any shortfall in the amount of housing costs included in your Universal Credit and your rent, help towards moving costs, or deposits required to move to more suitable accommodation, that may be more affordable to you.