If you are struggling to pay your bills or cover essential costs while waiting for your first Universal Credit payment, you can apply for an advance payment. This allows you to access funds early, which you will pay back over time.
The maximum advance you can receive is equal to your first estimated Universal Credit payment.
How to Apply for a Universal Credit Advance
You can apply for an advance payment through:
- Your Universal Credit online account
- Your Jobcentre Plus work coach
What You Need to Apply
When applying for an advance, you must:
- Explain why you need the advance
- Verify your identity (online or via phone with a work coach)
- Provide bank account details (if you don’t have an account, talk to your work coach for alternatives)
You will usually find out the same day if your advance is approved.
How to Get Help with Your Advance Application
If you need assistance applying for an advance payment, you can call the Universal Credit helpline.
Universal Credit Helpline:
- Phone: 0800 328 5644
- Textphone: 0800 328 1344
- Relay UK: 18001 then 0800 328 5644
- Available Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm
How to Repay Your Universal Credit Advance
You must repay the advance within 24 months. Repayments will be deducted from your Universal Credit payments.
Example of Advance Repayment
- Your first estimated payment is £344
- You receive a £344 advance
- You repay the advance over 24 months, at £14.33 per month
- Your first payment will be £329.67 (£344 minus £14.33)
Repayments are automatically deducted from your Universal Credit until the advance is fully repaid.
A Universal Credit advance can provide immediate financial relief if you need help with bills or essential expenses before your first payment. You can apply online or through your work coach, and you’ll usually get a decision the same day. The advance must be repaid within 24 months, with deductions taken from your future Universal Credit payments.
If you need help applying, contact the Universal Credit helpline or visit your local Jobcentre.
FAQ’s
What is a Universal Credit advance payment?
A Universal Credit advance is an early payment to help cover expenses while waiting for your first Universal Credit payment.
How do I apply for a Universal Credit advance?
You can apply online through your Universal Credit account or by speaking to your Jobcentre Plus work coach.
How long do I have to repay a Universal Credit advance?
You must repay the advance within 24 months, with deductions taken from your future Universal Credit payments.
How much can I get as a Universal Credit advance?
The maximum advance you can receive is equal to your first estimated Universal Credit payment.
What happens if I can’t open a bank account?
If you cannot open a bank account, speak to your work coach for alternative payment options.
