Benefits have changed
The benefits system has undergone a major change with the introduction of universal credit.
This information is about the benefits that have been replaced by universal credit that you may be getting, when they will stop and how that will affect you. It also explains the unique changes to benefits in Scotland.
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Why have benefits changed?
There have been a number of changes to the UK benefits system.
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Moving to universal credit
The majority of people getting legacy benefits will be ‘invited’ to claim universal credit from late 2020.
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Tax Credits
No new claims can be made for this benefit. If you are getting tax credits at the moment you will continue to do so until your circumstances change or you are invited to claim universal credit instead.
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Income based jobseeker’s allowance (JSA)
No new claims can be made for this benefit. If you are getting income-based jobseeker’s allowance at the moment you will continue to do so until your circumstances change or you are invited to claim universal credit instead.
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Income Support
If you are getting income support at the moment you will continue to do so until your circumstances change or you are invited to claim universal credit instead.
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Income related employment and support allowance (ESA)
No new claims can be made for this benefit. If you are getting income related employment and support allowance at the moment you will continue to do so until your circumstances change or you are invited to claim universal credit instead.
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Housing benefit
No new claims can be made for this benefit. If you are getting housing benefit at the moment you will continue to do so until your circumstances change or you are invited to claim universal credit instead.
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Useful contacts
The Lone Parent Helpline provides support and advice on anything from dealing with a break-up, moving into work or sorting out child maintenance, benefits or tax credit issues.
