As we begin a new year, many people will see changes in their financial situation.
There will be several changes to Universal Credit, a benefit claimed by around six million people in the UK. There will also be increases in pension payments and various other benefits.
Furthermore, some people will be asked to migrate to Universal Credit this year, as the Government moves away from other types of benefit payments.
Find out below what changes are coming up and how they could affect you.
What is Universal Credit and who can claim it?
Universal Credit is a monthly payment for people who are on a low income, unemployed or need help with living costs.
How much you receive depends on various factors including your age, living situation, employment status, and whether or not you have children.
You can check if you’re eligible and make a claim on the Government’s website.
Benefits migrating to Universal Credit
Several benefit payments will be migrating to Universal Credit, such as Child Tax Credit, Housing Benefit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), and Working Tax Credit.
People who claim these benefits or tax credits will be automatically switched to the Universal Credit system — unless their circumstances change.
Most people will be migrated automatically, but if you receive a Migration Notice letter, you need to switch to Universal Credit within three months.
You can do this by registering online, where you’ll need an email address and access to a phone. You’ll also need something to prove your identity, such as a passport or driving licence.
Furthermore, you’ll need to provide information about things like how much you earn and how much rent you pay, as well as any savings and investments you have.
Benefit payments increase
Universal Credit is among the benefit payments that will increase from April 2024.
The monthly standard allowance for claimants under 25 will rise from £292.11 to £311.68, while the monthly standard allowance for claimants over 25 will rise from £368.74 to £393.45.
Couples under 25 will see their monthly payment increase from £458.51 to £489.23, while couples over 25 will see their payment increase from £578.82 to £617.60 a month.
People who claim other benefits including the personal independence payment (PIP), disability living allowance, and attendance allowance will also see their monthly payments increase.
When is the next cost of living payment?
A final cost of living payment worth around £300 is expected to be paid in the spring. This is the final instalment of the £900 that eligible households received in 2023.
The date you will receive the final payment depends on which benefits you claim, but will likely be no later than May 9.
However, there are no further cost of living payments guaranteed after this.
