Universal Credit is a welfare benefit payment available to those who are unemployed or in low-income jobs. As it is rolled out, some existing benefits will be discontinued and replaced with Universal Credit.

Which welfare benefits will Universal Credit replace?

• Child Tax Credit
• Working Tax Credit
• Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Employment and Support Allowance
• Income Support
• Housing Benefit

Requirements for Universal Credit eligibility

Basic requirements include: 

• You have reached the age of 18 (excluding exceptional cases)
• You are below state pension age (66 years and below)
• You are not a full-time student in higher education (excluding exceptional cases)
• You are a UK resident and meet immigration requirements (excluding exceptional cases)

Financial requirements include:

• You have no more than £16,000 in total savings, stocks, shares or other capital
• For savings between £6,001 and £16,000, £4.35 will be taken for each £250 in savings from your monthly Universal Credit award.

How to apply for Universal Credit

• Universal Credit applications must be completed online. Once you have completed the application, you will be expected to attend an appointment either face-to-face or over the phone. 
• You can access the application via this weblink: https://www.gov.uk/apply-universal-credit
• If you do not have access to the internet, you can get support from your local job centre or borough facilities
• Support for Universal Credit is available here: 080 0328 5644

Day-Mer can provide support throughout the Universal Credit application process. We have computers with internet access freely available to use and advice workers are able to assist you or complete the application on your behalf

Universal Credit application stages:

• In order to begin your application, you will need to register an email address and mobile phone number to make a Universal Credit account.
• For married couples, one spouse can apply for both but the other must verify using a linking code.
• After applying, you will need your passport, driver's license or bank card to verify your identity. You will be directed to a bank or Post Office to verify the validity of these documents.
• After your identity documents are verified, you will be directed to call for your first appointment.
• If you provide any incorrect information, you have one month to correct it.

It can take 20 to 40 minutes to complete an application.

Documents required for the Universal Credit application:

• Personal information
• Postcode
• Bank information
• Rental agreement/contract
• Capital and savings details
• Information of other welfare benefits you receive
• Information of those living with you
• Your health information

The criteria listed above are also listed on GOV.UK