AS the big squeeze continues due to a cost of living crisis, we explain how to check if you’re missing out on Universal Credit.
Around 1.2million people are missing out on £7.46billion of Universal Credit, according to charity EntitledTo.
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That means those eligible but yet to make a claim could get an average of £6,216.
It could mean that you’re not getting money you are due to help pay for spiralling bills.
Energy bills are expected to climb to an eye-watering £3,000 on average by the end of the year.
While rocketing fuel prices are hitting drivers at the pump, and food prices went up 9.8% in the last year according to latest government figures.
Applying for Universal Credit could mean that alongside the extra income boost, you could get freebies and discounts for bills.
For example, you can apply for a discount off your council tax bill and get cheaper tickets for your travels.
And you could be eligible for cost of living payments as well.
We explain how to check if you’re eligible for Universal Credit – and how to apply.
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How can I check if I’m entitled to Universal Credit?
You may be able to get Universal Credit if:
- You’re on a low income or out of work
- You’re 18 or over (there are some exceptions if you’re 16 to 17)
- You’re under State Pension age (or your partner is)
- You and your partner have £16,000 or less in savings between you
- You live in the UK
How much you can get varies substantially depending on your living circumstances.
The quickest way to see what benefits you may be able to get is to use one of the three benefit calculators recommended by Gov.uk:
You should have key financial information to hand, such as bank and savings statements, information on pensions and existing benefits before applying.
If you don’t live alone, make sure you include your partner or family’s financial information too.
These tools will then tell you if you’re eligible for any benefits – but of course it is only an indicator.
How much could I get in Universal Credit payments?
Here’s how much Universal Credit you can get:
Standard allowance (per month)
- For those single and aged under 25, the standard allowance is £265.31
- For those single and aged 25 or over, the standard allowance is £334.91
- For joint claimants both under 25, the standard allowance is £416.45
- For joint claimants where one or both are 25 or over, the standard allowance is £525.72
Extra amounts for children
- For those with a first child born before April 6, 2017, the extra amount is £290
- For those with a child born on or after April 6, 2017 or second child and subsequent child, the extra amount is £244.58
- For those with a disabled child, the lower rate addition payment is £132.89 and the higher rate is £414.88
Extra amounts for limited capability for work
- For those deemed to have limited capability for work, the extra amount is £132.89
- For those deemed to have limited capability for work or work-related activity, the extra amount is £354.28
Extra amounts for being a carer
Universal Credit claimants can get an additional amount if you’re caring for a severely disabled person for at least 35 hours a week.
The amount you get a month is £168.81
How do I apply?
You can apply for Universal Credit online by creating an account on the gov.uk website.
You’ll need financial information like your bank account details, form of identity, evidence of how much you make (if anything) and what your outgoings are (like rent).
In order to access the benefit, you should submit your claim within 28 days of making an account.
You will then have to attend an interview at a Jobcentre Plus, which will be within 10 days of submitting your application.
If you have a disability or health condition you may also need a work capability assessment.
People who are struggling with bills or other costs while they wait for their first payment can apply to get an advance.
Otherwise you will have to wait five weeks to receive your cash.
