Universal Credit

Universal Credit is a payment to help with your living costs if you are either out of work or working but on a low income. Find out who can claim and how to apply.

Who can claim

You may be entitled to Universal Credit if you’re on a low income or need help with your living costs. You could be:

  • out of work 

  • working (including self-employed or part time) 

  • unable to work, for example because of a health condition 

To claim you must

  • live in the UK 

  • be aged 18 or over (there are some exceptions if you’re 16 to 17) 

  • be under State Pension age 

  • have £16,000 or less in money, savings and investments 

You might move to Universal Credit if you have a change in circumstances which affects your benefits.  This could be if you start or finish work, if your working hours change or if a partner moves in or out of your household.

There are some circumstances where you may have to claim a different type of benefit.  

Check if you are eligible by using the Universal Credit Eligibility Checker.

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