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Universal Credit is a benefit you can claim if you're on a low income or unemployed.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) are starting to contact people about moving from their current benefits to Universal Credit, however, you can decide to move sooner as you may be better off.

Is Universal Credit right for you?

Watch a video by the DWP to find out if Universal Credit is right for you:

Find out if you are eligible

To find out if you are eligible and better off, check the GOV.UK website: 

You can also contact our Universal Credit Support Team for advice and support.

What help you could get

Watch a video by the DWP to find out what help you could get:

Support available

Support and advice is available from our Universal Credit Support Team or directly from the DWP.

You can:

  • contact the Universal Credit helpline on 0800 328 5644
  • speak to a work coach at your local Job Centre
  • get help to claim support provided by Citizens Advice

Watch a video by the DWP to find out about the support available:

Universal Credit may not be right for you

New Style benefits are fortnightly payments that can be claimed on their own or at the same time as Universal Credit.

If you get both benefits, your Universal Credit payment will be reduced by the amount you get for New Style Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) or Job Seeker's Allowance (JSA).

New Style benefits are contributory benefits. Normally, this means you may be able to get them if you have paid or been credited with enough National Insurance contributions in the two full tax years before the year you’re claiming in.

Your (or your partner’s) savings will not affect how much New Style benefit you're paid and if your partner works, it does not affect your claim.

For more information visit the GOV.UK website:

Contact Information

 

East Ayrshire Universal Credit Support Team
Telephone: 01563 503280
Universal Credit Helpline
Telephone: 0800 328 5644