The Government is phasing out certain benefits and replacing them with Universal Credit. This new benefit is replacing Child Tax Credit, Housing Benefit and Income Support, as well as others. Many people have applied for Universal Credit in recent weeks due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Who is eligible for Universal Credit?
The Government website states you may be eligible for Universal Credit if:
- you’re on a low income or out of work
- you’re 18 or over (there are some exceptions if you’re 16 to 17)
- you’re under State Pension age (or your partner is)
- you and your partner have £16,000 or less in savings between you
- you live in the UK
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How much will I get for Universal Credit?
How much Universal Credit you receive monthly will depend on your personal circumstances.
If you are single and under the age of 25, the monthly standard allowance is £342.72.
If you are single and over the age of 25, the monthly standard allowance is £409.89.
If you’re in a couple under the age of 25, you will receive £488.59 in total, and £594.04 if either of you are over the age of 25.
On top of the standard allowance, you may be eligible for additional benefits.
Depending on when your children were born, and how many you have, you may also be eligible for extra payments.
You can also receive extra payments if you have a disability or health condition, or if you care for someone who is severely disabled.
Help with housing costs is also available if you need assistance paying your rent.
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How long do Universal Credit payments take?
Once you have claimed successfully for Universal Credit, you will receive payments every month.
It usually takes up to five weeks to receive your first Universal Credit payment.
It can take up to seven days for the payment to reach you once it has been made, and a one-month period is needed initially to assess your claim.
Can you receive Universal Credit payments early?
If you cannot wait five weeks for your first payment, you can apply for an advance.
This is capped at the amount of your first estimated payment, and you can apply through your online Universal Credit account or via your Jobcentre Plus work coach.
You can also call the Government’s dedicated Universal Credit helpline.
You will need to explain why you need the money early, verify your identity and provide bank details.
The Government aims to tell you the same day if you will receive an advance.
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