How to check universal credit payments for a single person
Guide for professionals
Compare your client's statements with a benefit calculation
Use an online tool to help you calculate how much universal credit (UC) your client is entitled to.
There are several free, independent online benefits calculators that can be used to give clients an estimate of what benefits they should be entitled to. Links are available at the bottom of the page.
Compare the information in your client's online journal and statements with a benefit calculation using one of the online tools. This can help you spot any errors the DWP has made.
Seek specialist benefits advice if there is a discrepancy between the calculation and the statements that you cannot account for.
Before you get a calculation
Most benefit calculators will not work correctly for claimants who are:
under the age of 18
full-time students
people from abroad who have not been granted access to public funds
prisoners
people living outside the UK
people living permanently in care homes
These groups of people cannot normally claim universal credit. There are several exceptions, but they fall outside the scope of basic calculators.
Find out more about when claimants in these groups can claim universal credit on Shelter Legal.
Seek specialist benefits advice if you have a client in this situation.
Information you need before you start
Make sure your client has gathered key information before you can complete a check, including the client's:
current income (including any wages or other benefits)
details of any children or adults living with the client (including dates of birth)
current postcode
nationality or immigration status
housing costs, such as rent or mortgage per month
council tax banding
details of any assets they have, for example savings or property
details of any health issues
whether anyone in the household is a student, in hospital, care, or in prison
Where to complete a benefits check
You can carry out a benefits check in lots of places online. Two of the most used online benefits calculators are:
Last updated: 23 December 2025