Universal Credit is a low income/capital based assessment for working age people. It replaces certain other low income benefits. Paid monthly or in Scotland can be paid twice monthly. Individuals or couples who have both reached State Pension age could claim Pension Credit.
Not everyone should make a claim for Universal Credit , if you already receive or have entitlement to certain other benefits. Working age people with a certain disability payment (Severe Disability Premium) included in another low income benefit could be better off on other benefits in some circumstances.
What you could receive depends on your age and household circumstances. You must tell them on your application, through your journal, or the enquiry line about your household and any changes, if you care for someone, if you are responsible for children, if any of the people in your household have a disability benefit, if you have housing cost or if you are unfit to work. This information can change your entitlement and what you can be paid.
For more information on Universal Credit and to find out if you’re eligible to claim it, visit GOV.UK – Universal Credit.
If you need support contact East Ayrshire Citizens Advice or Universal Credit Support Team.
Universal Credit Helpline
Telephone: 0800 328 5644
Textphone: 0800 328 1344
British Sign Language(BSL) users: Video relay service .
Relay UK (if you cannot hear or speak on the phone): 18001 then 0800 328 5644