Universal credit is a benefit that helps people with low incomes or those who are unemployed by covering living costs and rent. When you make your application for Universal Credit, you will have to wait 5 weeks before you receive your first payment. You may be able to get an “advance payment which would need to be paid to your rent account. Any advance paid to you will need to be repaid to the DWP at an agreed rate".
If you make a new claim for Universal Credit, please contact your Housing Income Officer in order that we can discuss your account with you and support you with any signposting/income maximisation needed. Your Housing Income Officer can be contacted on 01473 432000.
To find out if you can get Universal Credit, you need to meet certain eligibility requirements, which are listed below.
Eligibility criteria
You may be able to get 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
For more details, read about Universal Credit eligibility.
How to apply
To apply for Universal Credit, visit the Apply for Universal Credit page.
Some benefits and tax credits are being replaced by Universal Credit.
Learn more about this transition: