Universal Credit is simplifying the benefits system for working age people by combining the following six benefits and tax credits into one single monthly payment:
- Housing Benefit
- Income Support
- Income-Based Job Seeker’s Allowance
- Income-Related
- Employment and Support Allowance
- Working Tax Credits and Child Tax Credits
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is writing to most people who receive these benefits to let them know that they need to claim Universal Credit instead.
This letter - called a Migration Notice – explains what you need to do and when. It also provides information on the help available to continue receiving support from the government.
Find out when you will move to Universal Credit
It is important that you do not do anything until you receive your letter. You will not be moved automatically. Once you’ve received your Universal Credit Migration Notice letter, you’ll need to make a claim for Universal Credit to continue to get financial support. There will be a deadline in your letter. This is 3 months from the date the letter was sent out.
Your current benefits will end as soon as you submit your claim for Universal Credit and you will not be able to go back to your existing benefit once you have claimed. 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.