What is universal credit?

Universal credit (UC) is a benefit for people who:

• are working age

• have a low household income or no money coming in

You have to meet immigration conditions to get universal credit.

Help with rent

UC has a housing element to help with rent.

If you need money right now

You have to wait at least 5 weeks before you get any money.

You can ask for a universal credit advance if you need money sooner.

This is a DWP loan which is paid back out of your UC payments when they start.

You could apply for other emergency help that you do not have to pay back.

If you already get housing benefit

Your housing benefit usually stops if you claim UC.

The DWP want to move most working age people onto UC by April 2025.

If you get income related ESA it might happen later.

Find out more about moving from housing benefit to universal credit.

Choosing to switch to UC

Some people are better off on UC. It depends on your situation and the benefits you get.

Be aware that:

• the amount you get might go up or down

• not everyone who gets tax credits can get UC

• you may have to meet more conditions to get UC – such as looking for work or going to the jobcentre more often

You can check how much you could get with a benefits calculator.