What is Universal Credit?

Last updated: 22/03/2022

Universal Credit provides financial support, for living expenses and housing costs, to working age people and their families. The amount you get is based on your income but you do not have to be working to get it.

Universal Credit has replaced Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income related Employment and Support Allowance, Housing Benefit, Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit. These are now referred to as legacy benefits. Although you may be getting these benefits now there are no new claims being taken for them.

The benefits not being replaced by Universal Credit are still available.

Universal Credit needs to be claimed online and is calculated and paid monthly in arrears.