Over 100,000 DWP Claimants Urged to Act to Prevent Payment Disruption
As the next phase of the Universal Credit migration begins, over 100,000 DWP claimants have been issued a warning to take action to prevent payment disruption. Legacy benefit recipients, including those claiming income-based Jobseeker Allowance (JSA), are at risk of losing their payments if they do not transition to Universal Credit. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has been sending out specific letters to individuals affected by the transition, informing them that their benefits are ending and instructing them to apply for Universal Credit instead.
The Impact of Universal Credit Migration
Since March 2024, more than 800,000 migration notices have been sent out, with nearly 185,000 individuals losing their payments since July 2022 due to not completing their transfer. The government has emphasized the importance of JSA claimants switching their claims to Universal Credit in order to continue receiving financial support. Failure to do so by the deadline stated in the migration notice letter will result in the end of JSA payments.
Transition Protection for Universal Credit Claimants
For those transitioning to Universal Credit, ‘transitional protection’ offers a safety net. This means that individuals will receive a special payment on top of their Universal Credit entitlement if their previous benefit was higher. Additionally, transitional protection allows claimants to have money, savings, and investments exceeding £16,000 for 12 assessment periods if they receive tax credits. Full-time students in higher education can also continue claiming Universal Credit until they or their partner finish the course.
Applying for Universal Credit
The simplest way to claim Universal Credit is online through the government’s website. To complete the online application, individuals will need their bank, building society, or credit union account details, an email address, and access to a phone. Additionally, applicants may be required to verify their identity using documents such as a driving licence, passport, debit or credit card, payslip, or P60.
If claiming online is not feasible, individuals can contact the Universal Credit Migration Notice helpline on 0800 169 0328 for assistance with their application.
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Impact of Universal Credit Migration
The transition to Universal Credit has been a significant change for many DWP claimants, especially those receiving income-based Jobseeker Allowance. With the next phase of the migration process underway, individuals must take action to prevent any payment disruptions and ensure they continue to receive financial support.
Transition Protection for Universal Credit Claimants
Understanding the concept of transitional protection is crucial for individuals transitioning to Universal Credit. This safety net provides additional support to claimants, particularly if their previous benefit was higher than their Universal Credit entitlement. Knowing the benefits and limitations of transitional protection can help individuals make informed decisions about their financial situation.
Applying for Universal Credit
Navigating the application process for Universal Credit can be daunting, but understanding the requirements and steps involved can make the process smoother. Whether applying online or seeking assistance through the helpline, individuals must gather the necessary information and documents to complete their application accurately and efficiently.
