The latest statistics from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) show that in January 2022 there were 5.6 million people across the UK receiving financial support through Universal Credit, a benefit intended to help those out of work or on a low income with daily living costs.
However, many new and existing claimants may not be aware that when you apply for Universal Credit, it can take up to five weeks for the first payment to come through and for those in immediate need of financial support, it is now possible to apply online for an advance payment.
It's important to be aware this advance must be paid back as a deduction from their regular Universal Credit payment, however claimants now have 24 months to repay the loan, instead of the previous 12.
