Universal Credit is combining the following six benefits and tax credits (Housing Benefit, Income Support, Income-Based Job Seeker’s Allowance, Income-Related Employment and Support Allowance, Working Tax Credits and Child Tax Credits) into one single monthly payment.
The Department for Work and Pensions is writing to most people who receive these benefits to let them know that they need to claim Universal Credit instead, to ensure they still continue receiving financial support. This letter is called a ‘Migration Notice’. You do not need to take any action until you receive your Migration Notice letter, however when you do, it's important you check the date that you will need to claim by as you won't be moved automatically and your existing benefits will stop.
Please don’t ignore your letter as it explains what you need to do next. It also provides information on the help available to prevent you from missing out on financial support from the government. If you want some help with your Universal Credit application or you’re concerned about managing your income until you receive your first Universal Credit payment, there are different types of support available.
This information is only to assess what benefits you are eligible for. The information will not be passed onto any third party organisations. Your information won’t be held or used for other reasons.Â
Use this free calculator to see how much benefit you are eligible for and how much better off you might be in work.
Use Entitledto's free calculator to find out which benefits you can claim depending on your situation.
If you are looking for legal advice for Welfare Benefits, visit the Gov website to search for local advisors. Simply add your postcode and then tick 'Welfare benefits' on their Legal Aid page.
If you're on Universal Credit or think you will be on it in the future, there is a tool that can help guide you.
UC is a benefit for working age people and mixed age couples when one has reached Pension Credit age. Its paid monthly and includes housing costs.
Pension Credit gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you’re over State Pension age and on a low income. Pension Credit can also help with housing costs such as ground rent or service charges. It also unlocks other benefits like a free TV License or Council tax discounts. If you want to speak to someone on the phone call the Pension Service Helpline: 0800 991 234.
Housing Benefit supports people on a low income living in support, sheltered or temporary accommodation with rent payments. Click here to apply. Â
Child Benefit can help with the cost of your children. It’s usually paid every 4 weeks.
If you’re eligible, you’ll get £21.80 a week for your first child and £14.45 a week for any children after that. Click here to apply.Â
Are you state pension age? If so, you might be eligible to claim Pension Credit. Click here to apply.
You can claim Council Tax Support if you are on a low income or claiming benefits.Â
If you are 18 and live alone, you may be able to claim a Single Person Discount on your council tax.Â
If you have a disability, you might be entitled to claim benefits. If you care for someone with a disability you may also be able to claim.Â
You may be able to get Bereavement Support payment if your husband, wife or civil partner died in the last 12 months.Â
All children who are in Key Stage 1 (Reception, Year 1 and 2) at a state-funded school are offered a free healthy school lunch.
Children in other school years will be offered a free school meal if their parent or guardian is receiving any welfare benefits or has a low household income.
You can get extra help by applying for grants. Check here if you are eligible for additional support for things like energy bills, disabilities, household items and more.
