Universal Credit Windfall: The UK government has announced a £15 million funding boost to the “Help to Claim” scheme, aimed at assisting individuals transitioning from legacy benefits, such as Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), to Universal Credit (UC). This initiative is part of a broader effort to streamline the welfare system and ensure that claimants receive the support they need during the migration process.
Universal Credit Windfall
The £15 million boost to the “Help to Claim” scheme is a significant step in supporting individuals transitioning from legacy benefits to Universal Credit. By providing free and independent assistance, the government aims to ensure a smooth transition for claimants, minimizing disruptions in benefit payments. Coupled with other measures like the reduction in benefit deductions and the extension of the “Help to Save” scheme, these initiatives reflect a comprehensive approach to supporting low-income households during this transition period.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Funding Amount | £15 million |
| Purpose | To support individuals transitioning from legacy benefits to Universal Credit through the “Help to Claim” scheme. |
| Beneficiaries | Individuals moving from benefits like ESA to UC, especially those receiving migration notices. |
| Support Provided | Free and independent assistance from Citizens Advice and Citizens Advice Scotland, guiding claimants through the UC application process up to their first correct payment. |
| Migration Notices Issued | Over 1.8 million individuals in 1.35 million households contacted between July 2022 and March 2025; more than 60,000 notices expected monthly from February 2025. |
| Deadline for Migration | March 2026 |
| Additional Measures | Reduction in benefit deductions from 25% to 15% of the standard allowance, benefiting approximately 1.2 million households. |
| Benefit Increase | Universal Credit payments increased by 1.7% effective from April 7, 2025, aligning with the Consumer Price Index inflation for September 2024. |
| Official Resources | GOV.UK – £15 million funding boost to Help to Claim |
Understanding the £15 Million Boost
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has allocated an additional £15 million to the “Help to Claim” service. This service, delivered by Citizens Advice and Citizens Advice Scotland, offers free and independent assistance to individuals transitioning from legacy benefits to Universal Credit. The support includes guidance through the application process up to the first correct payment, ensuring claimants understand how UC works, what they are entitled to, and how to collect relevant evidence.
Between July 2022 and March 2025, over 1.8 million individuals in 1.35 million households were contacted regarding this transition. Starting February 2025, the DWP plans to issue more than 60,000 migration notices each month, aiming to complete the migration process by March 2026.
Who Qualifies for the Support?
The additional funding is designated to support individuals moving from legacy benefits to Universal Credit. Specifically, it targets those who have received migration notices from the DWP, prompting them to transition to UC. The “Help to Claim” service is available to anyone making a new Universal Credit claim, including those moving from a legacy benefit.
It’s crucial for recipients of migration notices to act promptly. Failure to apply for Universal Credit within three months of receiving a migration notice may result in the cessation of legacy benefit payments and the loss of transitional protection payments.
When Will Payments Arrive?
The £15 million funding is allocated to enhance the “Help to Claim” service rather than direct payments to claimants. Therefore, individuals will not receive a lump sum from this specific fund. However, the support provided can expedite the application process, ensuring timely access to Universal Credit payments.
Additionally, Universal Credit payments saw a 1.7% increase effective from April 7, 2025, aligning with the Consumer Price Index inflation for September 2024. Due to the assessment-based nature of UC, most recipients began to see this increase reflected in their payments from May 13, 2025, with others seeing changes by June 12, 2025.
Additional Support Measures
Beyond the “Help to Claim” initiative, the government has implemented other measures to support Universal Credit claimants:
- Reduction in Benefit Deductions: As of April 30, 2025, the maximum deduction from Universal Credit payments for debts has been reduced from 25% to 15% of the standard allowance. This change benefits approximately 1.2 million households, allowing them to retain an average of £420 more annually.
- Help to Save Scheme: The “Help to Save” program, which offers a 50% government bonus on savings up to £1,200 over four years, has been extended until April 2027. This scheme is now open to all working Universal Credit claimants earning more than £1 per month, potentially benefiting an additional 550,000 individuals.
How to Access Support for Universal Credit Windfall?
If you’ve received a migration notice or need assistance with your Universal Credit application:
- Contact Citizens Advice: They offer free support through the “Help to Claim” service, available via phone, online chat, and in-person appointments.
- Use Online Calculators: Tools like those provided by Turn2Us, Entitledto, and Policy in Practice can help estimate your entitlements and ensure you’re receiving all the support you’re eligible for.
Acting promptly upon receiving a migration notice is crucial to avoid any disruption in benefit payments. The enhanced “Help to Claim” service is designed to provide the necessary guidance and support during this transition.
DWP Benefits Payment Dates Changed — Check Your Updated Details Now!
DWP Just Dropped a Bombshell—Sickness Benefits Could Be Slashed for Millions!
DWP Confirms £201 Bonus for Universal Credit Claimants—Find Out If You’re Eligible!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the “Help to Claim” service?
A: “Help to Claim” is a free service provided by Citizens Advice and Citizens Advice Scotland to assist individuals in applying for Universal Credit. It offers support through the application process up to the first correct payment.
Q2: Who is eligible for the “Help to Claim” service?
A: Anyone making a new Universal Credit claim, including those transitioning from legacy benefits like ESA, is eligible for support through the “Help to Claim” service.
Q3: What happens if I don’t respond to a migration notice?
A: Failure to apply for Universal Credit within three months of receiving a migration notice may result in the cessation of legacy benefit payments and the loss of transitional protection payments.
Q4: How has the benefit deduction rate changed?
A: As of April 30, 2025, the maximum deduction from Universal Credit payments for debts has been reduced from 25% to 15% of the standard allowance, allowing claimants to retain more of their benefits.
Q5: What is the “Help to Save” scheme?
A: The “Help to Save” scheme is a government program that offers a 50% bonus on savings up to £1,200 over four years for working Universal Credit claimants earning more than £1 per month. It’s designed to encourage saving among low-income individuals.
