Universal Credit claims have been on the rise since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, as more and more people become unemployed or face financial difficulties. However, making a Universal Credit claim can be a daunting process, and there are several things you need to know before you start.
What is Universal Credit?
Universal Credit is a government benefit paid to those who are on a low income or out of work. It has replaced six separate benefits, including Jobseeker’s Allowance, Housing Benefit, and Working Tax Credit. The aim of the new system is to simplify the process of claiming benefits and encourage people to go back to work.
How to Make a Universal Credit Claim
Before you make a Universal Credit claim, you need to check if you are eligible. You can do this online through the government’s Universal Credit eligibility checker. If you are eligible, you will need to create an online account on the Universal Credit website and fill out an online application form.
The application form will ask for your personal details, including your National Insurance number, bank details, and housing information. You will also need to provide evidence of your identity, income, and savings. This can include payslips, bank statements, and rent or mortgage statements.
Once you have submitted your application, you will receive a phone call or email from a Universal Credit advisor who will ask you additional questions to confirm your eligibility. They will also set up an appointment for a face-to-face meeting to complete your claim.
What You Can Claim For
Universal Credit is made up of several different elements that can vary depending on your circumstances. These include a standard allowance, housing costs, and extra amounts for those with children or disabilities.
The standard allowance is a monthly payment that is based on your age and whether you are in a couple or a single person. The housing costs element can help you pay for rent or mortgage payments, but this will depend on your circumstances, such as the size of your home and whether you rent from a private landlord or a council.
If you have children, you may be eligible for extra amounts of Universal Credit, such as a child element or a childcare element. The amount you receive will depend on the number of children you have and their ages.
If you have a disability or health condition that affects your ability to work, you may receive additional amounts of Universal Credit. This can include a disability element or a limited capability for work element.
How Much You Can Claim
The amount of Universal Credit you can claim will depend on several factors, including your income, savings, and housing costs. The standard allowance for a single person over the age of 25 is currently £409.89 per month, but this can vary depending on your circumstances.
You can use the government’s Universal Credit calculator to estimate how much you may be eligible for. This will take into account your income, savings, and housing costs, as well as any other elements you may be entitled to.
What Happens After You Make Your Claim
Once you have made your Universal Credit claim, you will need to attend a face-to-face appointment with a Universal Credit advisor. This is to verify your identity, confirm your eligibility, and provide any additional evidence.
After your appointment, you will need to wait around five weeks for your first payment to arrive. This is because Universal Credit is paid monthly in arrears, and there is a waiting period of around one month before you can receive your first payment.
During this waiting period, you may be able to apply for an advance payment of Universal Credit to help you cover your living costs. This is a loan that you will need to pay back through deductions from your future Universal Credit payments.
Overall, making a Universal Credit claim can be a confusing and stressful process, but it can provide much-needed financial support for those who need it. If you are considering making a claim, make sure you do your research and seek advice if you are unsure about anything.