Universal Credit: who can claim, what it pays and how it is paid
Published · 4 min read · Figures checked . UK rules and rates change, so check the official sources below before you act.
Universal Credit is a monthly payment for people on a low income or out of work. This guide explains who can claim, the standard rates on GOV.UK, how earnings reduce it, and how the first payment and advances work.
What Universal Credit is
Universal Credit is a monthly payment from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) for people in the UK who are on a low income or out of work. It can include money towards living costs, children, housing, disability or health conditions, caring and childcare.
Who can claim
- You live in the UK and are usually aged 18 or over. People aged 16 or 17 can claim only in certain cases, for example if they have a health condition backed by medical evidence or are responsible for a child.
- You are under State Pension age. If only one partner has reached it, a couple can still claim, but the claim stops once both have reached it.
- You and any partner have £16,000 or less in money, savings and investments.
- If you live with a partner you claim together, and both incomes and savings are counted.
Full-time students can usually claim only in specific situations. People who get Pension Credit may be better off staying on it, as claiming Universal Credit would stop it. EU, EEA and Swiss citizens may need settled or pre-settled status.
Standard rates
The monthly figures below were read on GOV.UK on 11 October 2026 and apply to the 2026/27 tax year. The page does not print the start date of each figure, so check it for any later change.
Housing costs can also be covered. This can include rent and some service charges, and homeowners may be offered a loan for mortgage interest.
How earnings and savings change the amount
If you earn money, your payment goes down by 55p for every £1 you earn. Some people get a work allowance first, which is an amount you can earn before the reduction starts. You or a partner can get it if you are responsible for a child or young person, or have a disability or health condition that affects your ability to work.
How and when it is paid
- Universal Credit is paid once a month, usually into a bank, building society or credit union account.
- Each assessment period is a month, starting on the day you claim. You usually get paid 7 days after it ends.
- The first payment usually takes around 5 weeks.
- In Scotland, you can ask to be paid twice a month. Other options, such as rent paid direct to a landlord, can be requested after claiming.
Advances
If you need money while you wait, you can ask for an advance. It is a loan, not a gift. The most you can get is your first estimated payment. It is usually repaid over 24 months, starting from your first payment, and you can ask for repayments to be delayed by 3 months if you cannot afford them. You still owe it if you stop claiming.
How to claim
Claims are made online, and you have 28 days to complete a claim after creating an account. If you cannot claim online, the helpline is 0800 328 5644, Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm. If you already get other benefits, GOV.UK advises checking whether you would be better off first, as those benefits may end. Free, independent help with claims is available from Citizens Advice and MoneyHelper.
Check before you act
Rates and rules change, and your own circumstances may differ. Please confirm the details on the official pages linked below before making any decision.
Sources
For information only. See our disclaimer and editorial standards. Spotted an error? Tell us.
