Universal Credit

Universal Credit (UC) is a benefit for people who are unemployed or on a low income. It is to help pay for living costs.

It does not include the cost of council tax. If you get UC and need help to pay your council tax, you must apply for Council Tax Support.

Universal Credit will eventually replace the following benefits

  • Housing Benefit
  • Income Support
  • Income Related Jobseeker's Allowance
  • Income Related Employment Support Allowance
  • Working Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit

If you get any of the above benefits, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will let you know if you need to transfer to Universal Credit.

Who is entitled to Universal Credit?

You may be entitled to Universal Credit if:

  • you are on a low income or out or work
  • you or your partner are under state pension age
  • you and your partner have less than £16,000 in savings between you

To check if you are eligible for Universal Credit please use the benefit calculator. It will also tell you if you may be eligible for other benefits.

When you should apply for Housing Benefit instead of Universal Credit

You should apply for Housing Benefit instead of Universal Credit, if you fit into any of the categories below. If you currently receive Housing Benefit and any of the criteria below applies to you, your claim will not be affected.

  • You and your partner are pensioners - you must have reached the qualifying age for state pension credit.
  • You reside in specified accommodation (this is where care is provided by or on behalf of the social sector landlord, a hostel, domestic violence refuge)
  • You reside in temporary accommodation (this is housing arranged by a council because they have decided you are homeless). The accommodation must be allocated by the council or by a social housing provider through arrangements made with the council 

Couples

If you are in a couple, your eligibility for means-tested benefits is determined by the age of the youngest person. This means that if one of you is below the pension age you will need to apply for Universal Credit. Find out more and read real life examples on how people are affected.

Apply for Universal Credit

Universal Credit is administered by the DWP. You will need to apply online.

Need help to make a new Universal Credit claim?

Citizens Advice Harrow can help you claim Universal Credit. For details, see Citizens Advice.