Universal Credit is a financial support scheme designed to help individuals and families manage their living costs. It is available to those with a low income, people who are unemployed, or individuals unable to work due to health conditions. Understanding the eligibility criteria is essential to determine whether you qualify for this benefit.
Who Can Apply for Universal Credit?
You may be eligible for Universal Credit if you:
- Have a low income
- Need help with living costs
- Are out of work
- Work part-time, are self-employed, or work full-time but have low earnings
- Are unable to work due to a health condition
Basic Eligibility Requirements
To claim Universal Credit, you must:
- Live in the UK
- Be 18 years or older (exceptions apply for 16- and 17-year-olds)
- Be under State Pension age
- Have £16,000 or less in savings, money, and investments
Special Rules for Migration Notice Recipients
If you have received a Migration Notice letter, different eligibility rules may apply, and you must move to Universal Credit before the deadline in the letter.
Universal Credit Eligibility for EU, EEA, and Swiss Citizens
If you are an EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen, you and your family may need settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme to claim Universal Credit. Check if you are still eligible to apply for this scheme before making a claim.
Claiming Universal Credit as a Couple
If you live with your partner, you must make a joint claim for Universal Credit, even if your partner is not eligible. Your household income and savings will determine how much Universal Credit you receive.
What If One Partner Has Reached State Pension Age?
- If only one partner has reached State Pension age, you can still claim Universal Credit as a couple.
- Your Universal Credit payments will stop when both partners reach State Pension age.
- If you are currently receiving Pension Credit, it will stop if you or your partner claim Universal Credit. In most cases, staying on Pension Credit may be a better option.
Use a benefits calculator to check whether you would be better off with Universal Credit or Pension Credit.
Universal Credit for Students and Trainees
You can claim Universal Credit while studying if you meet any of the following conditions:
- You live with a partner who is eligible for Universal Credit
- You are responsible for a child (single or as a couple)
- You have reached State Pension age and live with a partner who is below State Pension age
- You have received a Migration Notice letter instructing you to claim Universal Credit
- You are 21 or under, studying at A-level or below, and do not have parental support
If you are studying part-time or enrolled in a course that does not provide student finance, you may still qualify for Universal Credit.
Universal Credit for Students with Disabilities
If you are a student with a disability or health condition, you may qualify for Universal Credit if you:
Have been assessed as having limited capability for work before starting your course
Receive one of the following disability benefits:
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Child Disability Payment (CDP) – Scotland
- Attendance Allowance
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
- Adult Disability Payment (ADP) – Scotland
- Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP) – Scotland
Universal Credit for 16- and 17-Year-Olds
You can apply for Universal Credit at 16 or 17 if any of the following apply:
- You have a health condition or disability and have medical evidence (e.g., a fit note)
- You are caring for someone who receives a health or disability-related benefit
- A medical professional has confirmed you are nearing the end of life
- You are responsible for a child
- You live with your partner, are responsible for a child, and your partner is eligible for Universal Credit
- You are pregnant and due within 11 weeks
- You have had a baby in the last 15 weeks
- You do not have parental support, meaning you do not live with your parents and are not under local authority care
Universal Credit for People with Disabilities or Health Conditions
If you have a health condition that affects your ability to work, you may be eligible for extra Universal Credit payments. You may need to undergo a Work Capability Assessment to determine your eligibility.
Universal Credit for Armed Forces Members
If you are a serving member of the armed forces stationed abroad, you can still apply for Universal Credit. When making a claim, you must use a specific UK address as part of your application.
Universal Credit provides essential financial support to individuals and families who need help with their living costs. Whether you are working, unemployed, studying, or have a disability, you may qualify for this benefit.
Couples, students, and those with health conditions should check their specific eligibility criteria before applying. If you receive a Migration Notice, ensure you transition to Universal Credit before the deadline to avoid losing financial support. For personalized assistance, use a benefits calculator to understand how much you can receive.
FAQ’s
Who can claim Universal Credit?
You may qualify if you are on a low income, unemployed, working part-time, self-employed, or unable to work due to a health condition.
Can couples claim Universal Credit?
Yes, couples must make a joint claim, even if one partner is not eligible. Payments are based on both partners’ income and savings.
Can students claim Universal Credit?
Yes, students can claim Universal Credit if they meet specific conditions, such as having a child, a partner who qualifies, or a disability.
Can 16- or 17-year-olds apply for Universal Credit?
Yes, if they have a disability, are responsible for a child, pregnant, or do not have parental support.
What happens if I get a Migration Notice?
You must apply for Universal Credit before the deadline in your letter to continue receiving financial support.
