Universal Credit is part of the government’s Welfare Reform. It is a single monthly payment for people out of work or on a low income and will replace six existing benefits.
Universal Credit is replacing:
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Income Support
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Housing Benefit
What is different about Universal Credit?
Universal Credit is claimed online. Payments are made monthly in arrears directly into your account.
Is Universal Credit just for people who are unemployed?
No. It is a benefit for anyone aged over 18yrs and below Pension Credit age, on a low to moderate income. It does not matter whether you are in work, out of work or how many hours you work. It can also apply if you are a carer, have child care costs or if you are too ill to work.
When is it coming to Leeds?
From October 2018 almost everyone in Leeds making a new benefit claim for one of the six benefits mentioned above will be asked to claim Universal Credit.
If you already claim one of these six benefits and your circumstances don’t change then you won’t be asked to move over to Universal Credit until at least 2019.
Digital Literacy: Preparation for Universal Credit
Leeds City College in The Community are hosting Digital Literacy courses in preparation for Universal Credit. Specifically helping with IT skills and accessing the Universal Credit online form.
Courses are taking place throughout July and August at Deacon House, Seacroft Avenue (LS14). For dates and locations across Leeds, and to book your place, please contact Leeds City College directly on 0113 386 1880.
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