Skip to content
Money GuideAll guides
How-to · Step-by-step

How to apply for Universal Credit in the UK

In short. Apply online at gov.uk/apply-universal-credit. The first payment normally arrives 5 weeks after the claim date — you can ask for an Advance to cover that gap, repaid from future payments.

Universal Credit replaces six legacy benefits (Income Support, JSA-IB, ESA-IR, Housing Benefit, Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit). Most new claimants for those are now placed on UC instead.

Last reviewed:

·Estimated time: P5W·Cost: Free

What you'll need

  • Bank account details
  • Proof of identity (passport, driving licence)
  • Proof of housing costs (tenancy agreement / mortgage statement)
  • Pay slips, savings details, childcare costs, details of any health conditions

The steps

  1. 01

    Check eligibility

    You usually need to be 18+ (some exceptions), under State Pension age, with savings under £16,000 and living in the UK. Couples must usually claim jointly.

    Official link →

  2. 02

    Start the claim online

    Apply at gov.uk/apply-universal-credit. You'll create an online account and a journal that you use to communicate with your work coach.

  3. 03

    Verify your identity

    Either online via GOV.UK One Login / the verification service, or at a Jobcentre Plus appointment if asked.

  4. 04

    Attend the new claim interview

    Most claimants have a phone or in-person interview within 7–10 days. You'll agree a Claimant Commitment setting out what's expected of you.

  5. 05

    Wait for the assessment period and first payment

    Payments are based on a 1-month assessment period, paid 7 days after the period ends — so the first payment normally arrives ~5 weeks after the claim date.

  6. 06

    Request an Advance if you can't wait

    You can request an Advance Payment via your online journal. It's repaid from future UC, usually over up to 24 months.

    Official link →

Common pitfalls

  • Don't claim legacy benefits (e.g. tax credits) at the same time — claiming UC ends them
  • Report changes (income, household, address) promptly to avoid overpayments
  • Migrating from tax credits has strict deadlines — open the Migration Notice on the day it arrives

FAQ

Can I work and claim Universal Credit?
Yes — UC is designed to taper as earnings rise. The taper rate is currently 55% — for every £1 of net earnings, UC reduces by 55p (after any work allowance).
Do savings affect Universal Credit?
Savings between £6,000 and £16,000 reduce your award. Savings over £16,000 disqualify you.
I'm on tax credits — should I switch now?
Don't switch voluntarily without checking — once you claim UC, your tax credits end. Use the gov.uk benefits calculator or speak to Citizens Advice first. If you receive a Migration Notice, follow its deadline carefully.
← All how-to guides