The Autumn Statement set for release on Thursday morning (November 17) could see Universal Credit claimants getting a substantial boost.
This is only possible if Rishi Sunak approves an inflation-based rise in the basic levels of benefits, reports Derbyshire Live. However, if he does, people could be getting a £52 increase in their monthly payments.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is expected to increase benefit payments, including Universal Credit, by 10.1 per cent in line with inflation. This will come when Chancellor Jeremy Hunt sets out the Autumn Statement on November 17.
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Downing Street had previously refused to commit to a rise in line with inflation earlier this year, after Boris Johnson previously promised that he would do so when was Prime Minister.
However, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said that the Government faces "difficult decisions" amid economic turmoil in the aftermath of the mini-Budget. Now, the PM is expected to bow to pressure and raise benefits amid the cost of living crisis.
Dependent on circumstances, a 10.1 per cent rise would mean up to £52 extra for claimants of Universal Credit each month. You could be eligible to get Universal Credit if you're out of work or unable to work, need help with your living costs or on a low income.
Two people who live together where one is aged over 25, are classed as joint claimants and currently receive £525.72 monthly. If the increase is implemented, this monthly payment would rise to £578.29.
Meanwhile, if the joint claimants are both under 25, their payments could jump from £416.45 to £480.09 per month. Those who live alone and are aged over 25 will see their monthly payment increase from £334.91 to £368.40.
And finally, those who are single and under the age of 25, your payment would go up from £265.31 to £291.84. With the raising of benefits, a major cut in other areas of public spending will come into place, alongside tax hikes.
But a Government source stressed no final decision had been made so a real-term cut could still happen, telling The Mirror that "it can and will change".
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