Switch from Legacy Benefits to Universal Credit
Around 400,000 claimants will be moved from legacy benefits to Universal Credit this year. Those on tax credits have already started moving under managed migration.
Timetable Revealed
People on income support, housing benefit, and Employment Support Allowance will start to be switched this year under a new timetable by the government. They must start their claim for Universal Credit within three months of receiving a migration notice.
Losing Benefits
If claimants don't switch to Universal Credit, their legacy benefits will stop automatically, risking losing out on additional protections and thousands of pounds a year.
Impact of Managed Migration
Analysis shows that 16,000 people on tax credits failed to claim Universal Credit after three months and are worse off by around £359 a month. Managed migration aims to move 2 million to Universal Credit by the end of this year.
Who is Affected?
Universal Credit is replacing six benefits under the old welfare system. Anyone on these benefits now can choose to move over but should carefully consider the implications for their money.
Help and Support
Claimants can use online benefits calculators from charities like Turn2Us and EntitledTo to compare. Help to Claim services are available from Citizen's Advice for those transitioning to Universal Credit.
