Universal credit

Universal Credit has replaced many existing benefits and provide both in and out of work support for people of working-age who make a claim.

The following benefits have being replaced by Universal Credit:

• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseekers Allowance
• Income-based Employment and Support Allowance
• Housing Benefit
• Child Tax Credits
• Working Tax Credits

Universal Credit is available across all areas where we have homes.

The main difference for tenants moving to Universal Credit is the way their rent is paid. In the past, Housing Benefit was paid direct to us. With Universal Credit it is paid to the tenant who is then responsible for paying their rent to us from this money, including any service charges.

If you expect to receive Universal Credit, it is essential for you to make arrangements to pay your rent, so that you do not fall into arrears. The easiest way to do this is by setting up a direct debit. You can contact us and arrange to do this over the telephone.

As Universal Credit is paid monthly in arrears, some people might find it difficult to budget. The Money Helper website gives useful guidance on budgeting.

As there could be a delay in payments reaching you during the switch between benefits, we suggest you start paying an extra amount per week to put your rent account into credit. This will help make sure you do not get into arrears.

All Universal Credit applications are completed online. You will need the following in place before you start any claim:

• bank, building society or credit union account details (call the Universal Credit helpline if you do not have one)
• an email address
• information about your housing, for example how much rent you pay
• details of your income, for example payslips
• details of savings and any investments, like shares or a property that you rent out
• details of how much you pay for childcare if you’re applying for help with childcare costs

You will need to verify your identity please visit gov.uk for more information on how to verify your identity. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/how-to-verify-your-identity-for-universal-credit

Click here to apply for Universal Credit

If you are applying for Universal Credit for the first time Citizens advice can help you with your first claim.

You can talk to them online or via their national phoneline.

For more information visit – www.citizensadvice.org.uk/about-us/contact-us/contact-us/help-to-claim/ 

To read the How to claim booklet from Citizens advice click here