Breaking Down Universal Credit: Eligibility Criteria and Payment Information

Are you over 18 and finding it tough to manage your daily expenses? Universal Credit might be the support you need. This article explains what Universal Credit is, who can get it, how to apply, and other important details.

What is Universal Credit?

Universal Credit is a financial support program in the UK for people with low incomes or who can’t work. It helps cover your daily living costs. To qualify, you need to be over 18 but under the State Pension Age, and you should either be unemployed or have a low income.

Eligibility for Universal Credit

Key Criteria

To be eligible for Universal Credit, you must:

• Be 18 years old or older (with some exceptions for 16-17 years old).
• Be younger than the State Pension Age.
• Not be in full-time education or training.
• Have savings below £16,000 (savings over £6,000 reduce the amount you receive).

You will need to create a secure online account on the UK government’s Universal Credit site and submit your claim within 28 days of creating the account.

How to Sign in to Your Universal Credit Account

Once you’re eligible, you need to manage your Universal Credit account online. You can:

• View your statement
• Apply for an advance on your first payment
• Check the date of your next payment
• Add notes to your journal
• Report any changes in your circumstances

Use the username and password you created when you applied. If you forget them, you can request a reminder.

How Much is Universal Credit?

Universal Credit payments vary based on your situation. Here’s a breakdown:

Standard Allowance

You get a monthly standard allowance based on your household:

• Single and under 25: £292.11
• Single and over 25: £368.74
• Married, both under 25: £458.51 (combined)
• Married, one or both over 25: £578.82 (combined)

Extra Amounts

You might get extra money if you meet certain conditions:

For Children:

• First child (born before 6 April 2017): £315.00
• First child (born on or after 6 April 2017): £269.58
• Each additional child: £269.58 per child
• Disabled child: £146.31
• Severely disabled child: £456.89

For Childcare Costs:

• One child: Up to £950.92
• Two or more children: Up to £1,630.15

For Limited Work Capability:

• Limited capability to work: £390.06
• Limited capability for work (health-related claim before 3 April 2017): £146.31

For Carers:

• Caring for someone with a health or disability-related benefit: £185.86

Reductions

Your payment might be reduced if:

• Your savings and investments exceed £6,000.
• You pay bills directly from your Universal Credit.
• Your income is above the benefit cap.
• You have received overpayments in the past.
• You are paying back an advance.
• You have a job or receive money from a pension or other benefits.

Universal Credit Loophole

A flaw in Universal Credit might mean some low-paid workers miss out on the cost of living payment, which is £650 monthly, split into two instalments. This loophole could prevent some people from receiving this support.

Universal Credit Payment Contact Number

If you have questions or need help, you can contact Universal Credit officials through your online account or by calling:

• Helpline Telephone: 0800 328 5644
• Textphone Number: 0800 328 1344

The helpline is available Monday to Friday, from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Universal Credit helps people with low incomes or those who are unemployed to cover their living costs. Understanding the eligibility criteria and application process can help you get the support you need.

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