Working age benefits: Universal Credit

When making a new claim for working age benefits, you need to apply for Universal Credit online.

If you aren’t familiar with computers or have no access to the internet, you are welcome to come to our office to use our dedicated workstation. Phone us on 020 8985 7120 to book an appointment.

You will also find computers you can use at most libraries, community centres and jobcentres.

From 2019-2023, existing claimants of working age benefits will gradually migrate to Universal Credit. If this affects you, be aware that Universal Credit works differently from the six benefits it replaces.

• Most people will be paid monthly.
• You will get a single payment for your household.
• Your first payment will arrive five to six weeks after you apply.
• You will need to pay your rent yourself – it can only be paid direct to us in exceptional circumstances.

We recommend paying a small amount of extra rent each week, so that you don’t fall behind when you are moved to Universal Credit.

There is a free benefits calculator on the entitled to website.

Pension age benefits: Pension Credit and Housing Benefit

When someone reaches their state pension age, they move from working-age benefits to Pension Credit and Housing Benefit

Before 15 May 2019, couples could choose to change over when the older partner reached state pension age. However, since that date, you can only move to Pension Credit and Housing Benefit when you both reach state pension age.