The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced that more Tax Credit claimants will be asked to claim Universal Credit from April as the UK Government expands the migration of legacy benefit claimants to the modern benefit system.
DWP said that by migrating to Universal Credit, claimants will continue to receive the benefit they are entitled to through a future-proofed modern benefits system. Universal Credit provides a vital safety net for millions of people every year, enabling them to support themselves and their families through its online digital system which allows claimants to access their benefits more easily and quickly amend their claim to reflect a change in their circumstances.
DWP also said that in most cases, individuals will be better off financially following a move from legacy benefits to Universal Credit. However, where someone’s entitlement to Universal Credit would be lower than their legacy benefits entitlement, in the vast majority of cases, they will receive a top-up payment known as Transitional Protection.
Transitional Protection means that their Universal Credit entitlement will be the same as their legacy benefit entitlement at the point they move.
Minister for Employment, Guy Opperman MP said: “Universal Credit has proven itself as a benefits system fit for the modern age, having dealt with the unprecedented demand of 3.7 million claims during the pandemic.
“The movement of those on legacy benefits to Universal Credit will ensure we can continue to provide the best level of support to benefit recipients through an effective and streamlined system.
“This Government remains committed to supporting the most vulnerable in society. I want to encourage all those who receive their migration notices to take action to ensure that they continue to receive the benefits they are entitled to.”
Migration to Universal Credit is being expanded from April following a Discovery Phase, with more Tax Credit claimants now set to receive letters known as Migration Notices.
DWP warns that people who receive the letters but fail to act are at risk of losing their current benefit entitlements.
The move of claimants on legacy benefits to Universal Credit was paused during the pandemic following record demand so that DWP could process increased application volumes.
Since its introduction some claimants have naturally moved to Universal Credit following a change in their circumstances and claimants have always been able to make a claim for Universal Credit if they wish to do so.
Migration Notices will be issued to all Tax Credit claimants over the next two years.
Help to claim
People can claim Universal Credit directly online or via the dedicated Universal Credit Migration Notice helpline for free on 0800 169 0328 or by visiting your local jobcentre.
Claimants that require more time to claim can also call DWP for free on 0800 169 0328.
For those who need additional support to complete their application, Citizens Advice Scotland’s Help to Claim service provides free, confidential and impartial advice along with a step-by-step guide to the claims process.
Find out more on the website here.
To keep up to date with the latest benefits news, join our Money Saving Scotland Facebook page here, follow us on Twitter @Record_Money, or subscribe to our newsletter which goes out Monday to Friday - sign up here.
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