What is Universal Credit?

Last updated: 13/02/2025

What is Universal Credit?

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.

 

Can single parents claim Universal Credit?

Single parents aged 16 to 66 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.

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