Universal credit

What is Universal Credit?

Universal Credit does not include help towards your Council Tax. You will need to make an application for Council Tax Reduction. To complete an application, please visit Council Tax Reduction

Universal Credit is for people of working age who are out of work or are working and on a low income. It is assessed and paid by the Department for Work and Pensions(DWP).

Universal Credit has replaced the following benefits:

• Income-based Job Seekers Allowance
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Income Support
• Working Tax Credit
• Child Tax Credit
• Housing Benefit

These are known as legacy benefits.

Universal Credit is a single monthly payment made to you or your partner.

From April 2024 the Department for Work and Pensions and HM Revenues and Customs will start to migrate all existing recipients of legacy benefits to Universal Credit. Move to Universal Credit

How do I apply?      

Universal Credit is digital by default, this means that claims can only be accepted on-line. If you cannot claim online, you can claim by phone through the Universal Credit helpline 0800 328 5644

If you can make your claim on-line but do not have access to the internet at home, you can use the facilities available at Job Centre Plus and local libraries. 

For more information please visit Universal Credit