A Guide to Universal Credit
Published: 03/12/2024
Universal Credit (UC) is a welfare system that replaces multiple benefits, which aims to simplify the welfare system and provide financial support to those in need. Understanding how it works and who qualifies can be challenging. Here’s a guide to help you navigate Universal Credit and what it may mean for you.
Universal Credit is a monthly payment to help with your living costs. You may be able to get it if you’re on a low income, unemployed, or unable to work. Universal Credit can help people on a low income or out of work meet a range of essential living costs. It can help with basic living expenses, housing costs, childcare, and support for disabled people and their carers.
You must tell Universal Credit about any changes in your circumstances. Your Universal Credit payments may stop or be incorrect if you don't.
If you do not report a change:
- You may not get all the money you are entitled to
- You may get more money than you are entitled to, and you would have to pay this back
- If you are unsure whether a change will affect your claim, contact Universal Credit.
Examples of changes include:
- Getting a job
- Moving home
- Stopping work
- Having or caring for a child
- Your child stopping or restarting education or training if they’re aged 16 to 19
- Changing your bank account
- Changing your mobile number or email address
- Changes to your savings, investments and how much money you have
- Your rent going up or down
- Becoming too ill to work or meet your work coach
- If you and a partner move in together or stop living together
- Reaching State Pension age
- If you live in the UK and you leave the UK for any length of time
- Changes to your immigration status
How to report a change
You must inform Universal Credit immediately about any changes. You can report changes:
- Through your Universal Credit online account
- By phoning the Universal Credit Service Centre
- By speaking to your work coach at your local Jobs & Benefits office
You must tell Universal Credit the date the change happened, giving as much information as possible.
Always keep your Universal Credit account updated with any changes to your personal details or work status. Nickolds Property Management is here to help you navigate any questions or challenges you may have.
Contact us here.
At Nickolds Property Management, we're a family business committed to making a difference in our communities. Our focus is on providing housing solutions for the vulnerable and homeless in Hertfordshire, Essex, and Bedfordshire. With a compassionate approach, we strive to create positive impacts and help those in need find a place they can call home.
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