New Claims for Housing Benefit are made through Universal Credit. For more information on this and Universal Credit please click here
Getting ready for Universal Credit
Universal credit is a new benefit system replacing many of the current benefits and tax credits. It is for working age individuals, including single parents. You can claim it whether you have a job or not. It is administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and is being introduced gradually across the country. Universal Credit is replacing six working age and income-related benefits, also called 'legacy benefits'
It brings together the following benefits:
- Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Income Support
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit
- Housing Benefit
In the Cannock area Universal Credit Full Service will start from August 2017 for WS14, WS15 and for the rest of the Cannock area full service will start in November 2018. Click on the highlight area to see Universal Credit (UC) updated roll out.
You have to claim Universal Credit online (GOV.UK Apply for Universal Credit). This can be on a computer, smart phone or tablet. The Department for Work and Pensions has produced a short video demonstrating the new Universal Credit Full Service online claim and account. You may find it useful to watch the video, to familiarise yourself with the new Universal Credit claim process;
Universal credit will be a big change for you and your family’s finances – so it’s a good idea to make sure you’re prepared for the switchover. We’re here to support you, but there are different ways that you can start to prepare so we’ve put together some tips to make sure you and your family is getting ready for the start of Universal Credit
- Plan ahead - When universal credit is introduced you will get one monthly payment for all benefits at once – so you may need to change the way you manage your money each month. We have online budgeting calculator which may help and you can access by login on to either a budgeting or money advice.
- Mind the gaps - Although Universal Credit may not apply to you for some time, there are still lots of things you can do to prepare. Why not try the Universal Credit Personal Planner by clicking her.
- Have you got an Account - Make sure you have a bank account or similar. You’ll need a bank or building society account, or an account with a credit union for your payments. If you don’t already have one please visit local banks and building society or contact Fusion Credit Union. Help is available by visiting: https://www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en/corporate/helping-your-tenants-get-a-bank-account-landhub
- Internet access - Make sure you have access to the internet – you’ll be expected to claim Universal Credit and manage your account online. If you require help with getting online visit your local library or visiting our Offices.
- Plan ahead - Set up a Direct Debit to ensure your rent account is kept up to date. To set up a Direct Debit please contact Money Management Team.
- Check your rent Balance - The best way for you to view your rent account is to login on the 'Self Serve' section of this website. If you need any help please contact us. If you do not have a computer and require a rent statement please ring the Income Management Team on 01543 462621
There is also free and impartial budgeting online money information and advice that you can access by clicking here.
Universal Credit will now accept new claims from families regardless of how many children they have. If you’re making a new claim, Universal Credit will pay an additional amount for all children born before 6 April 2017. You won’t be paid an additional amount for more than 2 children, unless the children were born before 6 April 2017 (on or before 6 April for Income Support) or special circumstances apply.
If you have been getting support for children in Universal Credit, Child Tax Credit, Income Support or Jobseeker’s Allowance in the last 6 months, you will continue to get the child amount for the same number of children, as long as you remain responsible for the same children.
If you’re struggling to pay your rent, or if your Housing Benefit or Universal Credit stops for any reason, please contact Income Management Team by email or ring 01543 462621. We can help and advise.
Useful links
Money Advice Service - Universal Credit
For further information see the leaflet below:
Universal Credit
Universal Credit FAQ
Last Updated: 08/03/2019