Universal Credit

Universal Credit is a payment to help with living costs if you're on a low income or out of work. Here's what you need to know.

What is Universal Credit?

Universal Credit is paid monthly (or twice monthly in some parts of Scotland) and provides:

• A standard allowance
• Extra amounts that apply to you (e.g. for children, disability, rent support)

Am I Eligible?

You may be able to get Universal Credit if:

• You're on a low income or out of work
• You're 18 or over (some exceptions for 16-17 year olds)
• You're under State Pension age (or your partner is)
• You and your partner have £16,000 or less in savings
• You live in the UK

Monthly Standard Allowances

• Single, under 25: £251.77/month
• Single, 25 or over: £317.82/month
• Couple, both under 25: £395.20/month (combined)
• Couple, one or both 25+: £498.89/month (combined)

Step-by-Step: How to Apply

1. Check Eligibility

Check gov.uk/universal-credit/eligibility to confirm you qualify.

2. Create Your Online Account

Apply online at universal-credit.service.gov.uk. You must submit your claim within 28 days of creating your account.

You'll need:

• Bank, building society, or credit union account details
• Email address
• Housing information (e.g. rent amount)
• Income details (payslips, invoices, contracts)
• Savings and investments details
• Childcare cost details (if applicable)
• Proof of identity (driving license, passport, debit/credit card, or Government Gateway ID)

If you have a partner, they'll also need to set up an account and you'll be given a code to link them.

3. Complete Your To-Do List

Make sure you complete everything in your application's 'to-do list' before your interview. Upload a CV if you have one—this speeds things up significantly.

4. Your Interview

You'll have an interview with a Jobcentre Plus representative (usually by phone). This happens within 10 working days of submitting your claim. Have ready:

• 2-3 pieces of ID (if confirming identity)
• Utility bills and tenancy agreement
• Bank details

5. Apply for an Advance (Optional)

If you need help with bills while waiting for your first payment, apply for an advance on your Universal Credit account. You'll usually find out the same day. You start paying it back from your first payment and can choose how many months to pay it back over (max 12 months). No interest is charged.

6. Receive Your First Payment

Your first payment arrives 5 weeks after you claim. It's paid monthly into your bank, building society, or credit union account. This payment may include an amount for housing, which you usually need to pay to your landlord.

7. Keep Your Details Updated

You must follow your Claimant Commitment agreed at your interview. You must also report any changes in circumstances immediately, including:

• Finding or finishing a job
• Having a child
• Moving in with a partner
• Moving to a new address
• Changes to your earnings (if self-employed)
• Changes to your health condition

Universal Credit Helpline

📞 0800 328 5644 (8am-6pm Monday to Friday)

For questions about Universal Credit, it's best to contact the helpline rather than trying to navigate it alone. Call early in the morning to reduce wait times.

Universal Credit assessments happen monthly, so any changes to your circumstances can affect your payment for the whole assessment period.