Universal Credit is the new benefit for working age people
About Universal Credit
Universal Credit is a single monthly payment for people in or out of work. It combines the following benefits into one payment:
- Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Income Support
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit
- Housing Benefit
Who can claim
If you need to make a new claim for any of the six benefits listed above, you’ll need to claim Universal Credit by visiting the GOV.UK website.
There are exceptions to this if:
- you're of pension age*
- you're living in temporary or supported accommodation
you'll be able to claim Housing Benefit in the usual way.
*If you've got a partner, you'll be able to claim Housing Benefit if you're both pension age. If only one of you is pension age, you'll need to claim Universal Credit instead.
If you're already on one of the benefits listed above, you won't need to do anything for now. Your benefit will continue until either:
- a change takes place which means your benefit is cancelled. You'll then need to apply for Universal Credit if you need help again in the future
- the Department for Work and Pensions transfers you to Universal Credit
Claiming Council Tax Support
You'll still need to apply to us for help with your Council Tax. This is not included in Universal Credit. To apply, please visit our Council Tax Support page.
If you wish to see if you're eligible for Housing Benefit or Council Tax Support, you can use our online benefits calculator.
How it's paid
Universal Credit is a single monthly payment, paid into your bank account in arrears. It includes money towards your rent. Your Housing Benefit will stop when you start claiming Universal Credit.
As Universal Credit is paid to you, you'll need to open a bank account if you don't already have one.
How much you'll receive
The amount you get will depend on how much income you have and your household circumstances. You can find out more by using the GOV.UK benefit calculators.
The monthly payment you'll receive will cover rent, bills and any other living expenses. If you need help with managing money or debt advice, please visit our other benefits and agencies page.
How to claim
You can only apply for Universal Credit online. You'll need a valid email address to be able to apply. You'll also need proof of your identity to set up your Universal Credit account.
To apply for Universal Credit via GOV.UK you'll need:
- a valid email address
- your National Insurance Number
- information about your housing (including how much rent you pay)
- details of income and savings
- details of how much you pay for childcare (if applicable)
Getting help to make a new Universal Credit claim
Norfolk Citizens Advice has a new service called ‘Help to Claim’. It offers support with making a new claim for Universal Credit, from opening your account to receiving your first full payment.
Their trained advisers can help you to:
- set up your Universal Credit account
- complete your claim to-dos
- verify your identity
- make sure you’re providing the right evidence to the Jobcentre
- understand what Universal Credit will mean for you
If you’re not sure what help you need, just get in touch and they’ll work out what support you need.
Call - Freephone 0800 144 8 444.
Or to find details of your local Norfolk Citizens Advice office, please visit the Citizen Advice Norfolk website.
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