The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that four legacy benefits will be phased out by February 2025. This means affected claimants must switch to Universal Credit (UC) before their deadline to continue receiving financial support.
While the government promises transitional protection to prevent immediate income loss, missing the deadline could result in benefits being stopped.
Here’s what you need to know about the transition, key dates, and how to prepare.
Key Details About the Transition
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefits Ending | Income Support, Income-Based JSA, Income-Related ESA, Housing Benefit |
| Transition Deadline | February 2025 |
| Action Required | Apply for Universal Credit before the deadline in the Migration Notice |
| Transitional Protection | Ensures claimants don’t lose income initially |
| Support Available | Help from Jobcentres, Citizens Advice, and DWP helplines |
| Official Resource | Visit gov.uk for guidance |
Which Benefits Are Ending?
The following four legacy benefits will be replaced by Universal Credit:
- Income Support
- Income-Based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-Related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Housing Benefit (except in some supported housing cases)
If you receive any of these, you must apply for Universal Credit before the deadline in your Migration Notice to avoid losing financial support.
How to Move to Universal Credit – Step-by-Step Guide
1. Wait for Your Migration Notice
The DWP will send a Migration Notice instructing you to apply for Universal Credit. This letter will include:
- Your personal deadline for applying.
- How to apply online or by phone.
- Information on transitional protection (if eligible).
2. Check Your Eligibility
Before applying, ensure you meet Universal Credit requirements:
- Age: You must be over 18 (some exceptions for 16-17-year-olds).
- Residency: You must live in the UK.
- Savings Limit: Your savings must be under £16,000 to qualify.
3. Gather Required Documents
To apply, you’ll need:
- National Insurance Number (NI)
- Bank details (for payments)
- Proof of income and housing costs (e.g., rent agreement, council tax bills)
- Details of dependents or disabilities (if applicable)
4. Apply for Universal Credit
Visit gov.uk to apply online.
If you need help, contact the Universal Credit helpline or visit a Jobcentre for assistance.
5. Attend Your First Universal Credit Interview
After applying, you must attend an interview:
- This can be in person at a Jobcentre or over the phone.
- You’ll need to provide any extra documents requested.
- You must agree to the Claimant Commitment, which outlines your responsibilities.
6. Receive Your First Payment
Your first Universal Credit payment arrives after five weeks.
If you need money urgently, you can apply for a Universal Credit Advance, but this must be repaid.
Will You Lose Money? Understanding Transitional Protection
Many claimants worry about losing money when switching to Universal Credit. To prevent immediate income loss, the government offers transitional protection.
This temporary top-up ensures your total income does not drop below your current benefit amount when you first move to UC.
Key Points About Transitional Protection:
- Only available if you apply before your deadline.
- It gradually reduces over time as circumstances change.
- It won’t apply if you voluntarily switch to UC before receiving a Migration Notice.
Challenges and How to Overcome Them
1. Delays in Receiving First Payment
- Solution: Apply for a Universal Credit Advance to cover costs while waiting.
2. Difficulty Applying Online
- Solution: Visit Citizens Advice or call the DWP helpline for assistance.
3. Confusion Over Work Requirements
- Solution: Speak to your Jobcentre Work Coach for a clear breakdown.
4. Loss of Certain Benefits
- Solution: Use a benefits calculator (such as Turn2Us) to check how your payments will change.
What Experts Say About the Transition
Government Perspective
The DWP claims Universal Credit is a simpler system that encourages work.
Mel Stride, Work and Pensions Secretary, stated:
“Universal Credit provides better financial security and a modern system that ensures every claimant receives the support they need.”
Charities’ Concerns
Many charities and welfare groups warn that some claimants could struggle during the transition.
Dame Clare Moriarty, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice, said:
“Some claimants may face hardship during the transition, especially those who rely on disability support. It is crucial to seek advice and apply early.”
The February 2025 deadline for switching from legacy benefits to Universal Credit is fast approaching.
If you receive Income Support, Income-Based JSA, Income-Related ESA, or Housing Benefit, you must apply before your Migration Notice deadline to continue receiving support.
Act now by checking your eligibility, gathering your documents, and applying on time to ensure a smooth transition and maintain financial stability.
