# How to apply for Universal Credit in the UK

> How-to · Last reviewed 26 May 2026

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## Quick answer

Apply online at gov.uk/apply-universal-credit. The first payment normally arrives 5 weeks after the claim date — you can ask for an Advance to cover that gap, repaid from future payments.

Universal Credit replaces six legacy benefits (Income Support, JSA-IB, ESA-IR, Housing Benefit, Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit). Most new claimants for those are now placed on UC instead.

## Steps

### 1. Check eligibility

You usually need to be 18+ (some exceptions), under State Pension age, with savings under £16,000 and living in the UK. Couples must usually claim jointly.

Source: https://www.gov.uk/universal-credit/eligibility

### 2. Start the claim online

Apply at gov.uk/apply-universal-credit. You'll create an online account and a journal that you use to communicate with your work coach.

### 3. Verify your identity

Either online via GOV.UK One Login / the verification service, or at a Jobcentre Plus appointment if asked.

### 4. Attend the new claim interview

Most claimants have a phone or in-person interview within 7–10 days. You'll agree a Claimant Commitment setting out what's expected of you.

### 5. Wait for the assessment period and first payment

Payments are based on a 1-month assessment period, paid 7 days after the period ends — so the first payment normally arrives ~5 weeks after the claim date.

### 6. Request an Advance if you can't wait

You can request an Advance Payment via your online journal. It's repaid from future UC, usually over up to 24 months.

Source: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/universal-credit-advances

## Common pitfalls

- Don't claim legacy benefits (e.g. tax credits) at the same time — claiming UC ends them
- Report changes (income, household, address) promptly to avoid overpayments
- Migrating from tax credits has strict deadlines — open the Migration Notice on the day it arrives

## Frequently asked questions

### Can I work and claim Universal Credit?

Yes — UC is designed to taper as earnings rise. The taper rate is currently 55% — for every £1 of net earnings, UC reduces by 55p (after any work allowance).

### Do savings affect Universal Credit?

Savings between £6,000 and £16,000 reduce your award. Savings over £16,000 disqualify you.

### I'm on tax credits — should I switch now?

Don't switch voluntarily without checking — once you claim UC, your tax credits end. Use the gov.uk benefits calculator or speak to Citizens Advice first. If you receive a Migration Notice, follow its deadline carefully.

## Sources

- [GOV.UK — Universal Credit](https://www.gov.uk/universal-credit)
- [GOV.UK — Universal Credit advances](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/universal-credit-advances)
- [GOV.UK — How to claim Universal Credit](https://www.gov.uk/universal-credit/how-to-claim)

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.