Universal Credit

Are you on low income or out of work? Universal Credit might be able to help you.

However, make sure you fully understand the application process first because:

Once you apply, previous benefits will stop.

What is Universal Credit?

Universal Credit is the benefit that supports you if you’re of working age and on a low income or out of work.

Universal Credit replaced a number of other means tested benefits like income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-based Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support, Tax Credits and for most people, Housing Benefit.

If you live in temporary accommodation or supported accommodation you will need to claim Housing Benefit for help with your rent, even if you receive Universal Credit for your other living expenses or have received help with your rent from Universal Credit previously.

You can find out more about Universal Credit here.

How do I claim Universal Credit?

You need to claim and manage Universal Credit payments online here. If you’re classed as a vulnerable person or not computer literate, you should apply via the Department for Work and Pension’s telephone service: 0800 328 5644.
You must have a bank, building society or credit union account.
You need an email address and mobile number.
You’ll need to make any claim for Council Tax support separately to your local council so contact them for further information.

If you don’t have a computer at home, you can try accessing one free of charge at:

Your local jobcentre
Your local library

Please be aware that:

You must apply as a couple if you and your partner live together – you don’t need to be married or in a civil partnership.
You must respond to all requests for information on your claim otherwise your application will be closed.

How is Universal Credit paid?

Monthly in arrears as one payment per household, directly into your bank, building society or credit union account.

If you feel you will struggle to budget with monthly payments or with paying your rent from the money you receive you can ask your Work Coach at the Jobcentre to consider paying you either twice a month and/or paying your rent directly to us.

How is my rent paid if I’m on Universal Credit?

By default, your Universal Credit will be paid directly to you. This means you’re responsible for paying your rent on time to us.
The easiest way is to pay your rent is by Direct Debit, see paying my rent and charges to set this up.
You or your Income Officer can ask the jobcentre to pay an amount towards your rent directly if you are in arrears or at risk of getting into arrears. The jobcentre staff do not need to agree to this request. Please contact your Income Officer before applying for your Housing Element (rent) part of Universal Credit to be paid directly to us.
If you’re struggling to pay your rent then please speak with your Income Officer by calling 0300 123 3399 or raising an enquiry on MyRaven.

Is there any help whilst waiting for my first payment?

You will have to wait at least five weeks for your first payment. You can ask for an advance payment to help you manage but will need to pay this back a bit at a time from future payments. Please let us know if you need support, such as a food bank parcel. You can contact the Moneywise team by completing the form on your MyRaven online account.

Request Moneywise support

How do I get help with making a claim?

Our Moneywise team can help you make a claim. To request support please complete the form through your MyRaven online account or by calling 0300 123 3399.