You can apply for Universal Credit online and you will need an email account. When you apply you will need certain information ready. If you are making a claim with a partner, they will need their details ready too.
The details you will need are:
If you are asked to go for an interview at your local Job Centre as part of your application, you will need to take this information with you (including a copy of your tenancy agreement). If live with a partner who is claiming, they will have a separate interview.
You will never receive a text or email asking for personal information or bank details as part of your Universal Credit application. Please note, there are scams preying on people, so do not share information if you’re not sure the call is related to your application.
For more information on what you need to do Citizens Advice have provided a helpful checklist.
It will usually take 5 weeks for your first payment. If you are in need, you can ask for an advance payment by calling the Universal Credit helpline 0800 328 5644.
Unlike other benefits, you can work as many hours as you want. If you are in paid employment, you may be entitled to a work allowance, which is the amount of money you’re allowed to earn before your Universal Credit is affected. You can get this allowance if you: