If you are receiving Universal Credit, you may also be eligible for other benefits and financial assistance. Support is available from the government, local councils, and other organizations to help with urgent expenses, budgeting, and unexpected job costs.
You might be able to access different types of support in Scotland, so it’s important to check what you qualify for based on your location.
Urgent Financial Support
1. Universal Credit Advance Payment
If you do not have enough money to live on while waiting for your first Universal Credit payment, you can apply for an advance payment.
- This helps cover essential costs while your Universal Credit claim is processed.
- You must repay it through future Universal Credit payments, which will be lower until the advance is fully paid back.
How to Apply:
- Apply through your Universal Credit online account.
- Speak to your Jobcentre Plus work coach.
2. Hardship Payment for Sanctions
If you received a sanction (meaning your Universal Credit payment was reduced) and you cannot afford rent, food, or heating, you may be eligible for a hardship payment.
- Check your eligibility before applying.
- Like an advance payment, you must repay it over time through lower Universal Credit payments.
Emergency Budgeting Advance
A Budgeting Advance is available for people who need extra financial support for unexpected expenses.
What Can a Budgeting Advance Be Used For?
- Emergency household costs (e.g., replacing a broken cooker).
- Costs related to getting a job or staying in work (e.g., travel, uniforms, or equipment).
- Funeral costs.
You will repay the advance through deductions from your future Universal Credit payments. If you stop receiving Universal Credit, you must repay the amount in another way.
How Much Can You Borrow?
| Your Situation | Maximum Amount |
|---|---|
| Single person | £348 |
| Couple | £464 |
| With children | £812 |
Who Is Eligible for a Budgeting Advance?
To qualify, you must:
- Have received Universal Credit, Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance, or State Pension Credit for at least 6 months.
- Need the money to start a new job or stay in work.
You will not be eligible if:
- You earned more than £2,600 in the past 6 months (£3,600 for couples).
- You haven’t repaid a previous Budgeting Advance loan (you can only have one at a time).
How to Apply for a Budgeting Advance
You can apply by:
- Updating your Universal Credit journal online.
- Contacting your nearest Jobcentre.
- Calling the Universal Credit helpline.
Universal Credit Helpline
- Phone: 0800 328 5644
- Textphone: 0800 328 1344
- Relay UK: 18001 then 0800 328 5644
- Welsh Language Support: 0800 328 1744
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm
Changing Your Universal Credit Payment Method
If you are facing financial difficulties or behind on your rent, you can request an Alternative Payment Arrangement (APA).
How an APA Can Help You:
- Rent payments can go directly to your landlord.
- You can receive payments twice a month instead of monthly.
- If you share a claim with a partner, you may be able to split payments.
Either you or your landlord can apply for an APA.
Help with Unexpected Job Expenses
When starting a new job or continuing work, you may have unexpected costs, such as:
- Work uniforms
- Equipment
- Travel expenses
If your employer does not cover these costs, speak to your work coach to see if you can:
- Get money upfront to help pay for expenses.
- Claim reimbursement for work-related costs.
Advice on Money and Debt Management
If you are struggling to manage your budget or pay bills, you can get free financial advice.
Support is available for:
- Utility bills (electricity, gas, and water).
- Housing costs (rent arrears, mortgage payments).
- NHS prescription costs and healthcare expenses.
If you are worried about debt, speak to a benefits adviser or contact a financial support service for guidance.
If you are on Universal Credit, you may be eligible for additional financial support through advance payments, hardship payments, or a Budgeting Advance. If you face unexpected costs for work or urgent expenses, you can apply for help through the government or Jobcentre Plus.
If you are struggling financially, seek assistance through free debt and money advice services to help you manage your budget and essential expenses.
FAQ’s
What financial help can I get while on Universal Credit?
You may be eligible for advance payments, hardship payments, a Budgeting Advance, or help with job-related expenses.
What is a Universal Credit Budgeting Advance?
A Budgeting Advance is a loan to help with emergency household costs, job expenses, or funeral costs. It is repaid through Universal Credit deductions.
How much can I borrow with a Budgeting Advance?
You can borrow up to £348 if single, £464 if in a couple, and £812 if you have children.
How do I apply for a Budgeting Advance?
You can apply through your Universal Credit online account, at your local Jobcentre, or by calling the Universal Credit helpline.
Can I change how my Universal Credit is paid?
Yes, you can request an Alternative Payment Arrangement (APA) to have rent paid directly to your landlord or receive payments twice a month.
