Universal Credit logoUniversal Credit

Universal Credit is a single monthly benefit for working-age people who are unemployed or on a low income. 

It applies to everyone who is currently in receipt of the following benefits:

  • Job Seekers Allowance – Income Based
  • Housing Benefit
  • Child Tax Credits
  • Working Tax Credit
  • Employment and Support Allowance – Income Based
  • Income Support

Universal Credit is being introduced in stages and will initially affect those who have a change of circumstances.  Universal Credit will eventually be rolled out to all of the above groups.  You can find more about Universal Credit here.

When you are invited to apply for Universal Credit, you must cmplete an application online and you can do this here.  If you don’t have online access, you might be able to use an online device for free at your local Jobcentre, library, Citizens Advice Bureau.  There may be exceptions as to whether you should make an online claim, pelase contact Universal Credit directly for advice on 0800 328 5644.

There is no limit as to how many hours you can work while in receipt of Universal Credit, it is calculated on how much you earn.  Your earnings are assessed during the month within your Benefit Assessment Period (BAP).  You will find out when this is and when your payment date is when you make your claim.  Univeral Credit must be paid into a bank/building society account.

If you currently receive Housing Benefit to help with your rent payments, you will now have to claim Housing Costs via your Universal Credit claim.  It is essential that you contact your Housing Officer to discuss this as soon as you transition to Universal Credit.

If you are currently under occupied, you will still be subject to an under occupancy charge and there will be a shortfall in your Housing Costs from Universal Credit.  You are still entitled to a Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) to mitigate this charge and applications must still be made via Glasgow City Council.  You can apply online here.