Universal Credit will replace all legacy benefits by March 2026.
If you have received a Migration Notice Letter from the Department of Work and Pensions or HMRC, you must claim Universal Credit by the deadline on your letter to continue receiving support, including help with your rent.
Universal Credit is:
- A single monthly payment that replaces several benefits
- Paid directly to you, not your landlord
- Your responsibility to use for rent and bills
It replaces:
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Housing Benefit
Universal Credit does not include Council Tax Support. You must apply for this separately through Manchester City Council.
Not unless you’ve been told to. But being prepared will make the process easier.
Get ready by making sure you have:
- Internet access, an email address, and mobile phone
- A bank account
- Proof of ID and National Insurance
- Your tenancy agreement and proof of service charges
- Proof of address and household members
- Income, savings, and benefits information
Need help with any of this?
- Email us on adviceteamreferrals@southwayhousing.co.uk
- Or visit our contact us page for other ways to get in touch.
Universal Credit and you:
This guide from the Department for Work and Pensions covers everything from your responsibilities and available support to how sanctions work.
Applying for Universal Credit:
A list of everything you will need to apply.
How your earnings affect your payment:
A breakdown of how your Universal Credit entitlement is affected by your earnings.
Useful links:
Are you prepared?
Understanding Universal Credit:
Universal Credit in action:
Universal Credit details can change. The most up to date information will always be found on the Government’s website.
What is Universal Credit?
This short film sets out how Universal Credit will help to make work pay, the support that claimants will get and what will be expected in return. Learn more about Universal Credit - how it works and what it will mean for you.
