Which changes of circumstance could trigger a change to Universal Credit?
Universal Credit is slowly being rolled out across the UK and replacing older benefits services; while new claimants are automatically enrolled with Universal Credit, existing claimants are being migrated gradually over to the new system, with a view to this being completed by 2024. However, certain changes of circumstances - which claimants are required to notify the Department of Work and Pensions about - can trigger a move to Universal Credit early. Let's take a look at what changes of circumstance could trigger this move.
Universal Credit triggers
The following changes to your circumstances must all be reported to the DWP, and could mean an early migration to UC: - A change in your employment status, including a new job, changes in working hours, or sick leave. - A change in family circumstances, including having a first child or your youngest child turning 5. - A partner leaving or joining the household. - Becoming a carer, or stopping being a carer. - Starting a disability claim, or stopping one. - Changes to tax credits, including renewing existing claims. - Moving home or beginning a new tenancy. - Other changes, which can include being remanded in custody or stopping full-time education.
What happens next?
Depending upon the exact change in your circumstances, you may have to move to the new Universal Credit system, or you may be given a choice of whether to move, or whether to stay in your current system. The decision of whether to move should be made on a number of factors, including how much money you will get under the new system as well as waiting days, frequency of payments, and eligibility for UC.
Call us for advice
If you're given a choice of whether to stay on your current benefits or switch to Universal Credit, it's important to consider the benefits of both systems and understand which one you're better off with. At Taxcare Accountancy, we offer discreet and professional benefit and Universal Credit advisory services which can help you to make the right choices for you and your family. Call us today to know more.