What is Universal Credit?

With the cost of living continuing to increase, more and more people are finding it increasingly difficult to afford their basic living costs on their wages alone.

There are several benefits which you could be entitled to so it’s worth checking your eligibility. Free debt advice provider, PayPlan, has put together an outline of Universal Credit and the different elements you could be entitled to.

What is Universal Credit?

Universal Credit is a monthly benefit available to some people who are on low incomes, out of work or unable to work. In the UK, Universal Credit has replaced Child Tax Credit, Housing Benefit, Income Support, Income-Based Job Seeker’s Allowance (JSA) and Working Tax Credit.

This change has affected millions of people, who have not only had to adapt from receiving weekly payments to monthly payments, but in some cases found that their entitlements have changed too.

What could I receive with Universal Credit?

The Universal Credit rate changes every April, at the start of every tax year. The amount you receive will differ and is dependent on your situation. In April 2022 the Universal Credit rates will be:

Standard allowance:

• Single and aged under 25: £265.31
• Single and aged 25 or over: £334.91
• In a couple and both aged under 25: £416.45
• In a couple and one or both aged 25 or over: £525.72

Child elements:

• First child, born before April 6, 2017: £290.00
• First child, born on or after April 6, 2017, or subsequent children: £244.58

Disabled child additions:

• Lower-rate addition: 132.89
• Higher-rate addition: £414.88

Limited capability for work support:

• Limited capability for work amount: £132.89
• Limited capability for work and work-related activity amount: £354.28

Carers:

• Carer amount: £168.81

Childcare costs amount:

• Maximum for one child: £646.35
• Maximum for two or more children: £1108.04

Non-dependants:

• Non-dependants’ housing cost contributions: £77.87