To apply for Universal Credit, follow these steps:
- Check your eligibility
Ensure you meet the basic criteria: usually aged 18 or over (some exceptions apply), under State Pension age, living in the UK, having less than £16,000 in savings, and earning below a certain amount. Use a benefits calculator or ask a local adviser to check if Universal Credit is right for you
- Create an online account
You must apply online by creating a Universal Credit account on the official GOV.UK website. If you live with a partner, both of you need to create separate accounts and link them during the claim process. You must submit your claim within 28 days of creating your account, or you will have to start again
- Gather necessary information and documents
Prepare details such as your bank or building society account, email address, phone access, National Insurance number, housing costs (rent), earnings (payslips), any other benefits you receive, disability or health conditions, childcare costs if applicable, and savings or investments. You will also need to prove your identity with documents like a driving licence, passport, or payslips
- Complete the online application
Fill in your details and answer questions about your circumstances. If you cannot apply online, you can call the Universal Credit helpline to claim by phone, especially if you have difficulty using a computer or internet access
- Verify your identity
You may need to verify your identity online or attend an appointment at a Jobcentre if online verification is not possible
- Attend a Jobcentre appointment
After submitting your claim, you’ll be invited to a meeting with a work coach to discuss your claimant commitment and agree on activities to help you find work. This is required before you receive your first payment
- Wait for your first payment
Your first Universal Credit payment usually arrives about five weeks after your claim is submitted. You can apply for an advance payment if you need financial help while waiting
- Report any changes
Keep your online account updated with any changes in your circumstances to ensure you receive the correct payment
If you need support during the process, you can contact the Citizens Advice Help to Claim service for free advice and assistance
. In summary, the application is primarily online, requires creating an account, submitting detailed personal and financial information, verifying identity, attending a Jobcentre appointment, and then waiting for payment. Phone claims are possible in special cases
