Have you had a letter about moving to Universal Credit?

If you’re on certain low-income benefits, you will soon be moved onto Universal Credit. The move isn’t automatic – once you get a letter, you’ll have to take action within the time set out otherwise you could lose your income-related benefits.

Many older-style benefits, including Tax Credits, Housing Benefit and Income Support, are gradually being phased out. And those who currently get them are being asked to move over to newer Universal Credit (UC).

This process started last year for some. So if you’ve already had a letter and moved across to UC, there’s no need to do anything else. 

If you’re still on certain older benefits, you will get a letter from the Government formally inviting you to move from your existing benefit(s) onto UC. This is called a ‘migration notice’.

Follow the instructions in your migration notice to start your Universal Credit claim. In the letter will be details of the website you’ll need to visit.

If you’re unable to access the internet to make your claim call the Managed Migration helpline on 0800 169 0328, or use the Citizens Advice Help to Claim service. 

If you’re unable to apply for UC by the deadline set on your migration notice letter, you may be able to ask for a short extension, but this will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Usually, you’ll need to have a good reason for being unable to apply and you’ll need to request the extension before the deadline date on your letter – or your current benefits may be stopped. 

If in doubt pop in and see us.