60k universal credit migration notices to be sent out each month from February

Tens of thousands of people will receive letters this year about making the switch to universal credit from older legacy benefits.

Sixty thousand migration notices will be sent out each month from February until the end of the year.

You’ll have three months to make the switch to universal credit after getting your letter. If you miss this deadline, you risk losing your payments.

Which benefits are affected?

Here’s a quick list of benefits being replaced by universal credit:

• housing benefit
• income-related ESA
• income-based jobseeker's allowance (JSA)
• child tax credit
• working tax credit
• income support

Will you be better off?

About 55% of claimants might find themselves better off under universal credit. However, 35% could experience a drop in income. If that’s you, don’t panic.

‘Transitional protection’ payments will help cover any shortfall until your universal credit equals your old benefits.

Can you switch early?

Yes, you can switch to universal credit early if you think it benefits you.

Just remember, once you make the switch, you can’t go back to your old benefits.

Our free online benefits calculator can help you decide if you’ll be better off.

How to claim universal credit

You can claim universal credit:

• online
• by phone at 0800 169 0328
• in person at your local jobcentre

Once you submit your claim, your previous benefits will stop.

It may take up to five weeks for your first universal credit payment, but don’t worry – some legacy benefits will continue for two weeks to help you transition.

Need support?

If you have questions or need help during the migration process, contact DWP.

Think you might be missing out on benefits? Get in touch so we can check you’re claiming everything you’re entitled to.