Universal Credit Boost: All You Need to Know
Universal Credit has been boosted to help people while looking for work or training.  The government promised to pump £7 billion into the welfare system, meaning an increase for most.
The support means that a single person will receive £257 under the age of 25 and anyone over 25 will receive £324. With payment for couples varying once again.  People who also receive support for children will also see a rise in support for the first child being £282 and subsequent children at £237. If you are entitled to claim and wish to do so through Universal Credit, people are encouraged to do so via the government’s portal online. You will need to provide key information such as bank details, an email address, alongside details about your income, savings and investments. You can also fill out a CH2 claim form and send it to the Child Benefit Office for parents and guardians hoping to claim Child Benefit.
What is Universal Credit?
Universal Credit is a payment from the government to help you with your living costs. You are entitled to claim Universal Credit if:
- You are on a low income or out of work
- You are 18 and over (with exceptions for 16-17 year olds)
- You are under State Pension age
- You and your Partner have £16,000 or less in savings between you
- You live in the UK
Universal Credit payment can be made up of six legacy benefits meaning it is made up of a standard allowance, that anyone can access, plus any additional amounts. This could include payments from child benefits, housing benefits or disability benefits. It is important to be aware that Universal credit depends on your earnings and your circumstances.
You can go to: Universal Credit – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) to find out more information about Universal Credit and to check if your eligible to make a claim.
What can I do while on Universal credit?
If you are claiming Universal Credit you will be able to use it to find a new job, top up a wage if you are in a lower paid role or use it to help make a change by taking a course. There are many different options to become not so reliant on Universal Credit and become self-reliant. If you need to find work after a long time being out of work or needing to up or reskill to get back into work. Free2Learn has a wide range of Free courses for Job seekers, anyone on Universal Credit or have a low income. We can help with employment skills and provide extra support to help with your wellbeing. You can go to our course page below to find out more about what is available in your area.
