Applying for Universal Credit

You can apply for universal credit online; you will have 28 days to complete the application form so it is best to have all the information you need at hand.

You can check if you are eligible for Universal credit – https://www.gov.uk/universal-credit/eligibility

You can also make an appointment with Citizen’s Advice to discuss making a claim as they may be able to support you.

If you live with a partner, you must both submit a claim even if your partner does not meet the eligibility requirements as the outcome will depend on your household income and savings, you must apply separately and link the accounts later.

To apply for Universal Credit you will need:

· Your bank, building society or credit union account details

· An email address

· Access to a phone

You will also need proof of your identity:

· Driving licence

· Passport

· Debit or credit card

· Payslip or P60

If you don’t have these you will need to contact the helpline or citizens advice may be able to support

· Universal Credit helpline

· Telephone: 0800 328 5644

· Welsh language: 0800 328 1744

· Relay UK (if you cannot hear or speak on the phone): 18001 then 0800 328 5644

· British Sign Language (BSL) video relay service if you’re on a computer – find out how to use the service on mobile or tablet

· Textphone: 0800 328 1344

· Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm

You will also need to provide information about:

· Your housing, for example how much rent you pay

· Your earnings, for example payslips

· Your National Insurance number, if you have one

· Other benefits you get

· Any disability or health condition that affects your work

· How much you pay for childcare if you want help with childcare costs

· Your savings and any investments, like shares or a property that you rent out

You may be asked to attend an appointment with the universal credit team if they need more information or if they cannot verify your identity, this may be over the phone or in person at a jobcentre.

You will need to agree to a ‘claimant commitment’ before receiving any universal credit, you will have a meeting usually at the jobcentre to discuss this, you may be required to look for work or to look to increase your current income however this depends on the information provided and whether they assess you as being able to work, you will be supported by a ‘work coach’ if you are required to look for work and may need to attend appointments.

You will have an online account to manage your claim where you can access messages.

MAIN can provide an evidence letter to support your application for universal credit if you are accessing support. Please give at least 2 weeks notice for this.