You usually have to wait at least 5 weeks for your first universal credit (UC) payment.

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

What is a UC advance?

An advance is an interest free loan from the DWP.

You pay it back from your monthly UC payments.

Your UC payments are lower while you pay back the advance.

You can pay the loan back over 2 years.

You may have to pay it back sooner if you stop claiming UC.

You can ask to delay repayments for up to 3 months if you cannot afford them.

How to get a UC advance

You can: 

• ask your work coach at your jobcentre interview

• call the UC helpline on 0800 328 5644

• apply through your UC online account

Information you need

You need to:

• confirm your identity

• tell the DWP why you need the advance

• give them your bank account details

Good examples of why you may need an advance are for rent, food or important bills.

The DWP usually ask if there is other money you could use. For example, savings, final wages or redundancy pay.

How much to ask for

Only ask for what you need to live on before your first UC payment comes through.

The most you can get is the same as what the DWP say your first UC payment will be.

It's best not to ask for the whole amount unless you need it.

This is because it has to be paid back. It means your UC payments will be lower for as long as it takes to pay back.

How soon do you get the money?

You usually get a decision on the same day.

The DWP should pay the money into your bank account within 3 working days.

You can ask for a same day payment in an emergency. For example, if you need it for food.

If you cannot get an advance

Your application might be refused if your work coach or UC adviser decide you do not need the money.  

Ask them to reconsider as soon as you can. Ask your work coach or use your UC online account.

We have advice on how to deal with rent arrears if you miss rent payments.