Universal Credit is gradually replacing these benefits for most working-age people:
- Housing Benefit
- income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit
- Income Support
You usually claim Universal Credit online. If you need help with this you can call the Universal Credit helpline free on 0800 328 5644.
You can also ring Citizens Advice on their freephone 'Help to Claim' line: 0800 144 8444. They can help you online as well at citizensadvice.org.uk/helptoclaim
There are places with free internet and help to claim across the city.
Budgeting
If you can't wait five weeks for your first payment of Universal Credit it is possible to apply for a repayable advance
Personal Budgeting Support (PBS) can help you to manage your money. It's available at Jobcentre Plus offices and at Shelter's Hub: ring Shelter on 0344 515 1681 for more information. Calls may cost more from mobiles.
Help with your housing costs
Working-age people - you usually get this in with Universal Credit. But if you live in supported or temporary accommodation you need to claim Housing Benefit to help with housing costs .
Pension-age people - you either claim help with housing costs from Universal Credit or from Housing Benefit - it depends on your circumstances.
Help with your Council Tax
Universal Credit does not help with Council Tax. Anyone who needs help with Council Tax must claim Council Tax Support.
More detail about Universal Credit
- DWP - Understanding Universal Credits
- Gov.uk - What Universal Credit is
- Find out more about work, jobs training and advice
Claim Universal Credit on gov.uk