Check UK Eligibility 🇬🇧
🇬🇧 UK Income Support · Updated June 2026

💷 Universal Credit

Universal Credit is the UK's main working-age benefit, replacing 6 older benefits including Housing Benefit, Income Support, and Working Tax Credit. It provides a monthly payment to help with living costs if you're on a low income or out of work — whether employed, self-employed, or unemployed.

Up to £1,229/month
Benefit amount
Income Support
Category

Do you qualify?

You may qualify if you're 18 or over, under State Pension age, have less than £16,000 in savings, and live in the UK. You can claim whether you're working or not.

Age18 or over (some 16–17 year olds qualify). Under State Pension age.
SavingsLess than £16,000 in savings and investments. Savings between £6,000–£16,000 reduce your payment.
ResidencyMust live in the UK and not be subject to immigration control
Work statusCan be employed, self-employed, or unemployed. Working doesn't automatically disqualify you.
IncomeLow or no income. Amount reduces as earnings increase above your 'work allowance'.
Existing benefitsCannot claim Universal Credit alongside most legacy benefits — you may need to migrate.

How much you could get

Universal Credit is paid monthly and includes a standard allowance plus additional elements for children, housing costs, disability, and childcare. For 2024/25: single claimant under 25 (£311.68/mo), single claimant 25 or over (£393.45/mo), couple under 25 (£489.23/mo), couple both 25 or over (£617.60/mo). Child element adds up to £287.92/mo per child. Housing element can cover up to Local Housing Allowance rate.

How to apply — step by step

1

Check if you're eligible

Use the GOV.UK eligibility checker at gov.uk/universal-credit/eligibility to confirm you qualify before applying.

2

Apply online at GOV.UK

Go to gov.uk/apply-universal-credit. You'll need: email address, phone number, bank account details, housing details, income and savings information.

3

Verify your identity

You'll need to verify your identity online (usually through GOV.UK Verify or via a video call). Have your passport or driving licence ready.

4

Complete your to-do list

After applying, you'll have a list of tasks to complete in your online journal including confirming your housing, income, and savings details.

5

Attend your claimant commitment appointment

You'll agree a Claimant Commitment — your obligations in exchange for Universal Credit. This is usually a brief phone or in-person meeting at your local Jobcentre.

6

Receive your first payment

Your first payment arrives approximately 5 weeks after you apply (standard wait). Apply for an Advance Payment immediately if you need money sooner.

Apply on GOV.UK →

Need help while you wait for a decision?

Frequently asked questions

How long does Universal Credit take to pay?
The standard wait is 5 weeks from your application date to your first payment. This covers a one-month assessment period plus up to 7 days for payment. You can request an Advance Payment immediately to cover this gap — it's repaid over 24 months from future payments.
Can I claim Universal Credit if I'm working?
Yes. Universal Credit is designed to support people in work as well as out of work. If your earnings increase, your Universal Credit payment reduces gradually — you keep 45p less UC for every £1 you earn above your work allowance.
What is the 5-week wait and how do I manage it?
The 5-week wait is the period between your first application and first payment. You can apply for a Budgeting Advance (interest-free loan repaid from future UC payments) to cover this period. Ask your work coach at your first appointment.
Will Universal Credit affect my existing benefits?
Universal Credit replaces: Income Support, income-based JSA, income-related ESA, Housing Benefit, Child Tax Credit, and Working Tax Credit. If you receive any of these, you'll be 'migrated' to UC — do not cancel your existing benefits until the DWP contacts you.
Can I appeal if I'm refused Universal Credit?
Yes. You can request a Mandatory Reconsideration within one month of the decision. If unsuccessful, you can then appeal to an independent tribunal. Citizens Advice can help you with this process for free.