How can I prepare for Universal Credit?

TIP: The main requirements to make a new claim for Universal Credit are to have an email address and access to the internet. If you are going to struggle accessing the internet see our page – Do I have to be online? for more information.

How can I prepare for Universal Credit?

Universal Credit will change the way you receive and manage your money.

You may not have to claim Universal Credit yet, but it is still a good idea to think about how it will affect you when you do.

These are some things you may like to consider:

You will need an email address
You will need to have an email address to be able to claim UC. If you do not have one - set one up. Get help if you will find this difficult.
You will need to go online
UC is claimed and managed online. So you will need access to the internet and basic computer skills. If you do not have these - find out where help is available.
You will need to verify your identity
The DWP will want to verify your identity - this is easier with photo ID. Start to gather documents such as your passport, driving licence, birth certificate, marriage certificate, benefits letter, NI card, P45 etc.
Managing a Monthly Budget
Universal Credit is paid monthly and in arrears. If you are used to working out your budget weekly or fortnightly, think about how you will manage your money for a whole month.
You will need a bank account.
In limited cases the DWP can pay you for short periods by the ‘Payment Exception Service’, while you sort out getting a bank account. These payments can be collected from Post Offices or Paypoint outlets with a card or voucher.
Paying your rent
On UC you will normally be responsible for paying your rent. If you are a council or housing association tenant contact your landlord, they can offer help and advice.

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If you would like to talk through some of these issues, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

Example:
Samir was worried about Universal Credit because he had never used a computer before. He knew his local library had computers so asked if there was anyone that could help him. They suggested he attend sessions being run in the local community centre. He now feels ready to make and manage a Universal Credit claim online when his turn comes.

Example:
Audrey doesn’t have a bank account. Her old benefits were paid into a Post Office account, and when those accounts were withdrawn she got her benefits paid into her mum’s account. She didn’t think she could have a bank account because she isn’t working, but Universal Credit will expect her to have her own account. She is delighted to find that all banks have a ‘basic bank account’ that she can open.

Example:
Glen and Olivia are having their first baby in a few months time. They know this will trigger the need for them to claim Universal Credit. They currently get Income-Related Employment and Support Allowance and budget fortnightly. The move onto Universal Credit will be a big change and so they attend some budgeting classes at their local Family Centre to make sure they can stay on top of things.

Received a Managed Migration Notice??

Had a change in circumstances

Choose to claim
Universal Credit

“I’d been told that I might receive a Migration Notice in the next few months. So I booked in to have a chat with a Benefits Adviser. It was good to know what moving onto UC would mean for me and what I could do now to make it easier when I do make the claim.”