What is Universal Credit?
Universal Credit (UC) is a means-tested benefit that helps with living costs for people on low income or out of work. It replaces six legacy benefits and is paid monthly (twice-monthly in Scotland for some claimants).
Eligibility for Universal Credit
You must be under State Pension age, live in the UK, have savings/capital under £16,000, and meet residency rules. Capital between £6,000 and £16,000 reduces your payment.
How to Claim
Claim online at GOV.UK. You have 28 days to complete the claim.
Entitlement and Payment Amounts (2026/27 Rates)
Use the official GOV.UK calculator for a personalised estimate.
Standard Allowance (monthly)
| Circumstance | Amount |
|---|---|
| Single under 25 | £338.58 |
| Single 25 or over | £424.90 |
| Couple both under 25 | £528.34 |
| Couple (one or both 25+) | £666.97 |
Additional Elements (monthly)
- Child Element: Available for all children (two-child limit removed from 6 April 2026).
£351.88 (first child born before 6 Apr 2017)
£303.94 (subsequent children or first born on/after 6 Apr 2017) - Disabled Child: Lower £158.76 | Higher £495.87
- Childcare Costs: 85% of eligible costs, up to £1,071.09 (1 child) or £1,836.16 (2+ children)
- Limited Capability for Work (LCW): £158.76
- Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity (LCWRA):
Higher rate £429.80 (protected for pre-2026 claimants, terminally ill, or severe conditions)
Lower rate £217.26 (most new claimants from April 2026) - Carer Element: £209.34 (35+ hours care per week)
- Housing Costs: Eligible rent (capped)
Work Allowances: £710 (no housing costs) | £427 (with housing costs)
How Payments Work
Paid monthly, 7 days after the end of your assessment period. First payment usually after 5 weeks. Advance available.
Support for Children
The two-child limit was removed on 6 April 2026. You can now claim the child element for **all children** in your household.
Support for Disabled People
Report health conditions to trigger a Work Capability Assessment. LCWRA now has two rates (see above).
Support for Carers
Carer Element £209.34 per month if you provide 35+ hours of care weekly.
Problems, Sanctions & Appeals
Sanctions reduce payments if you don’t meet your claimant commitment. You can request Mandatory Reconsideration then appeal to a tribunal.