Traditional benefits known as legacy benefits are ending and are being replaced by Universal Credit (UC). Moving everyone from the legacy benefits will take time and is being done in stages. This is known as managed migration.

Legacy benefits are:  

  • Child Tax Credit
  • Working Tax Credit
  • Housing Benefit (if under pension age)
  • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
  • Income-based Jobseekers Allowance (JSA)
  • Income Support

Other benefits, such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP), will stay the same.

When are the changes happening?
Many people have already been moved over to Universal Credit.  If you have not already done so, then you will move later this year.  You will receive a letter within the next few months from the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP), telling you about the move. This is called a 'Migration Notice Letter'. Please look out for it, read it carefully and follow the instructions closely to make sure your change is as smooth as possible.

What do you need to do?
When you get your letter, make your UC claim as soon as possible.

Leaving it until last minute could mean you will be without financial support until your claim is processed.

Doing it straight away will also mean your UC matches your previous benefit income to make sure you’re not worse off financially because of the move.

So how do you apply?
This is something you need to do yourself online, but only once you've received your letter. If you need any help with this or any advice about the move to UC please contact our team of experts on 01639 315000.

Information on how to apply will be outlined there but if you do need help, you can get in touch with us, can call the Universal Credit Migration Notice helpline for free on 0800 169 0328 or visit your local job centre.

Find out more:
More about Universal Credit, when you need to apply and support available here: Move to Universal Credit - Move to Universal Credit (ucmove.campaign.gov.uk)