Don’t miss out on money you’re entitled to

Unbelievably around a million people aren’t claiming Universal Credit (UC) when they could be, so make sure you’re not missing out on any payments. 

Read on for more details about how and when to claim Universal Credit or quickly check our online benefits calculator to see what you might be entitled to.

What is Universal Credit?

UC is designed to support working age people on low incomes (or no income) with living and housing costs. It has replaced the following benefits:

• Child Tax Credit
• Working Tax Credit
• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income-related Employment & Support Allowance
• Housing Benefit

Claiming Universal Credit opens access to other forms of support, including increased free childcare hours, and reduced tariffs for certain utilities. 

If you claim one (or more) of the benefits listed above

If you receive any of the benefits listed above, you will continue to receive your benefit and you don’t need to do anything until your circumstances change.

If you receive Working Tax Credits seek advice before applying for Universal Credit as it is not be possible to apply for Working Tax Credits again once a claim for Universal Credit has been made. Get in touch with our Welfare Rights & Money Advice Team for free, confidential advice.

Help with claims for Universal Credit

Citizens Advice Southampton provides lots of UC support including helping with making a new claim and opening an account to receive your full payment. You can chat to their advisors in Southampton Central Library (Lower floor) Monday to Friday between 10am and 2pm. You can also find out useful information about when and how to claim Universal Credit on the Money Saving Expert website.

Help with your Council Tax

If you are on a low income and have less than £16,000 in savings you may be eligible for Council Tax Reduction which is available for tenants and homeowners.

Check how much you may be entitled to

You can check if you are eligible for any benefit payments using one of the online benefit calculators or contact our Welfare Rights & Money Advice Team on 023 8083 2339 for impartial and confidential advice.