Universal Credit

Universal Credit has replaced the following benefits for new claims:

• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income-related Employment & Support Allowance
• Income Support
• Child Tax Credit/Working Tax Credit
• Housing Benefit.

Universal Credit is paid directly to you every month, including any help towards rent. This means you will be responsible for ensuring full rent is paid.

When a new claim is made for Universal Credit, there will be a wait of one calendar month plus seven days for the first payment. The DWP may consider paying Universal Credit twice a month if you will struggle with monthly payments.

You need to apply online so you can get ready for Universal Credit by setting up an email address and opening a bank account. If you feel you may have difficulty paying rent, contact us straight away on 0345 065 5656.

Our Benefit Caseworkers can do ‘better off calculations’ and give you advice about Universal Credit, so please feel free to call them direct on 01642 771424 or email benefit.caseworkers@beyondhousing.co.uk. Alternatively, if you need to claim Universal Credit and need help with this you can visit Help to claim on the Citizens Advice website.