Single parents and Universal Credit

Last updated: 22/03/2022

Single parents aged 16 to 65 can claim Universal Credit. The upper age will increase in line with the qualifying age for state pension. Pregnant women aged 16 and over can claim it from 11 weeks before their baby is due.

To receive Universal Credit you will be expected to take steps to find work. This is called ‘work related activity’. What you must do depends on the age of your children and any health issues you or your children have.