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Help with Universal Credit
If you’re on a low income, out of work or can’t work, you may be eligible for Universal Credit from the Government.
About Universal Credit
Universal Credit is a monthly payment provided to help you with your living costs if you’re out of work, can’t work or on a low income.
The amount you receive may vary, based on any income you have. You can find out if you are eligible to claim on the Government website.
Turn2Us – Financial support charity
For more help and information on Universal Credit, visit Turn2us. This UK charity has plenty of free resources and tools to help you find the right support.
- Find out how to claim for Universal Credit
- Try the online benefits calculator and grant search tool
- Speak to an adviser in your local area
Call: 0808 802 2000 Lines open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
Universal Credit FAQs
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This will depend on the income and circumstances of all the household members.
Your standard allowance will depend on your age and whether you are single or claiming as a couple. There is one standard allowance for your household. The Turn2Us benefits calculator can help you to get an estimate of what you may be entitled to when you claim Universal Credit.
Find out more about Universal Credit payments.
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Universal Credit is a single payment made monthly. If you live in Scotland, you can choose to have it paid twice a month.
Once you have applied for Universal Credit, there is an assessment period. You can find more information on when you are paid on the Government website.
You’ll get a monthly statement that tells you how much Universal Credit you’re going to get. If you need help to pay your bills or cover other costs while you wait for your first Universal Credit payment, you can apply to get an advance.
The most you can get as an advance is the amount of your first estimated payment.
Apply for an advance payment in your Universal Credit account.
You can also set up alerts to let you know when funds have reached your bank account, through our Mobile banking app. You can find more information on setting up alerts here.
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Universal Credit will be paid directly into your bank account or other nominated account.
For most people, your Universal Credit payment will include money for your rent and it is up to you to make sure you pay that rent to your landlord. If you are worried you might struggle to do this, you can ask for the money to be paid direct to your landlord instead.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) can pay more frequently or split the payment in some circumstances.
If you live in Scotland, you can ask for your Universal Credit to be paid twice monthly.
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If your benefit payment has been paid into your account and you are unable to access it because you’ve exceeded your overdraft, we can still help you. Call into a branch and bring your account card with you or proof of ID.
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Your payment will be made to you on the same day every month. If you want to change the date that you are paid, view your benefits statement or update your circumstances, you will need to log into your Universal Credit Account.
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There may be other benefits that you may be entitled to claim. You can use the Turn2Us benefits calculator to see what you may be eligible for.
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You can use our budgeting tool or the MoneyHelper budget planner to help you work out your budget.
You can also book a Helping Hand appointment to review your finances with a Banking Consultant. They’ll be able to provide support and guidance on managing your money and setting a budget.
Find a branch near you or call us to book an appointment on 0345 720 3040. Lines are open 7am – 11pm, 7 days a week.
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