What is Universal Credit Migration?
Universal Credit migration is the process of moving people from older benefits to Universal Credit, the UK’s main benefit for those on low income or out of work. The government is gradually phasing out legacy benefits such as Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Housing Benefit, Child Tax Credit, and Working Tax Credit. If you currently receive any of these, you may be required to switch to Universal Credit to keep receiving financial support.
This transition is happening because Universal Credit is designed to simplify the benefits system by combining several payments into one monthly amount. The aim is to make it easier to manage and to ensure support is targeted where it’s needed most. For a full explanation of how Universal Credit works and who it helps, see What is Universal Credit.
The legal framework for this change is set out in the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992, which defines the benefits being replaced, and The Universal Credit (Managed Migration) Regulations 2018, which govern how claimants are moved onto Universal Credit.
It’s important to respond to any instructions from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) about migrating to Universal Credit. Not switching could mean your payments stop, so staying informed is crucial to avoid any break in financial support. To learn more about Universal Credit, its purpose, and how it supports people, visit our main Universal Credit page.
Who Needs to Move to Universal Credit?
Most people who receive certain older benefits will eventually need to move to Universal Credit. This includes those currently claiming income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support, Housing Benefit, Working Tax Credit, or Child Tax Credit. These benefits are being replaced by Universal Credit, so claimants will be asked to switch over in stages.
To find out if you need to move from your current benefits, it’s important to check if you should move to Universal Credit from other benefits. This guide can help you understand your situation and what steps you may need to take.
If you receive a migration notice – a formal letter from the Department for Work and Pensions – it means you are required to claim Universal Credit by a certain deadline. Migration notices are issued under The Universal Credit (Managed Migration) Regulations 2018](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukdsi/2018/9780111174265), which set out the legal process and your rights during this transition. To understand exactly what to do if you’ve received one, visit our step-by-step guide on [Moving to Universal Credit if you’ve got a migration notice.
It’s essential to check your eligibility and respond to any migration notice promptly to avoid any breaks in your payments. For specific advice if you’re claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance, Citizens Advice offers further guidance on how changes may affect your claim.
How the Universal Credit Migration Process Works
When you’re moved from older benefits to Universal Credit, the process is managed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Here’s what you can expect during the migration:
Step 1: Receiving Your Migration Notice
If you’re currently claiming benefits like Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, Housing Benefit, Child Tax Credit, or Working Tax Credit, you’ll receive a migration notice from the DWP. This letter tells you when you need to switch to Universal Credit and outlines your next steps.
Step 2: Understanding Your Deadlines
The migration notice will include a deadline – usually three months from the date of the letter – by which you must claim Universal Credit. It’s important to apply before this deadline to ensure your payments continue without interruption.
Step 3: Making Your Universal Credit Claim
Once you receive your notice, you’ll need to start your Universal Credit application. The process is mostly online, but support is available if you need help. For a step-by-step guide, see Applying for Universal Credit.
Step 4: What Happens to Your Existing Benefits
Your current benefits will usually stop two weeks after you make your Universal Credit claim. In some cases, you may receive a final payment of your old benefit while your new Universal Credit claim is being processed. There are protections in place to help make sure you’re not left without support during the transition.
Step 5: Special Circumstances
If you’re sick, disabled, or have complex needs, there may be extra support or different rules during migration. Find out more about Getting Universal Credit if You’re Sick or Disabled.
Further Information
For a detailed look at how the Universal Credit system has changed over time and what the application process involves, you can read the Universal Credit application process overview from the House of Commons Library.
Remember, following the instructions in your migration notice and meeting deadlines is essential to avoid gaps in your financial support. If you have questions or need help, the DWP can provide guidance throughout the process.
Understanding Your Universal Credit Payments After Migration
After you move to Universal Credit, your payments may look different compared to your previous benefits. Universal Credit is calculated by looking at your household income, savings, and personal circumstances, such as your housing situation and whether you have children or disabilities. The official rules for how payments are worked out are set out in the Universal Credit payment calculation. For a simple breakdown of what you might receive, visit our guide on How Much is Universal Credit.
Payments are usually made monthly, directly into your bank account. You’ll receive your first payment about five weeks after you claim. For more details on when and how payments are made, see How Universal Credit is Paid.
If you work part-time, your Universal Credit may be adjusted based on your earnings. The benefit is designed to top up your income, so as you earn more, your Universal Credit will gradually reduce. For more on this, see Claiming Universal Credit While Working Part-Time.
If you experience any problems or delays with your payments after migrating, it’s important to act quickly. Find out what steps to take on our Payment Problems page.
Your Universal Credit payments can change if your circumstances change – such as a new job, a change in living arrangements, or a change in income. To understand how these changes might affect you, visit Changes and Updates on Universal Credit.
For those moving from Income Support or similar benefits, the Income Support rules explain how the transition is managed and what support is available during the switch.
What to Do If You Face Issues During or After Migration
If you face issues during or after your migration to Universal Credit, it’s important to act quickly to protect your financial support. Here are the key steps you should take:
If Your Universal Credit Claim Is Sanctioned or Reduced
Sanctions can happen if the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) decides you haven’t met certain responsibilities, which may reduce your payments. If this happens, review the Universal Credit sanctions](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukdsi/2018/9780111174265) to understand the rules and reasons for the decision. For practical steps and support, see [What to Do if You’ve Been Sanctioned.
Appealing a Universal Credit Decision
If you disagree with a decision about your Universal Credit – such as a sanction, a reduced amount, or even a refusal – you have the right to challenge it. The process usually starts with a ‘mandatory reconsideration’, followed by a formal appeal if needed. For detailed guidance, visit Universal Credit Appeals.
Reapplying for Universal Credit After Migration
If your claim ends or is closed during or after migration, you may need to start a new application. Find out how to Reapply for Universal Credit to avoid gaps in your financial support.
Where to Get Help and Advice
If you’re unsure about any part of the migration process or run into problems, getting help early can make a difference. Advice services and charities can support you with appeals, sanctions, and managing your claim.
Managing Your Claim After Migration
Staying on top of your Universal Credit claim – reporting changes, meeting your commitments, and keeping records – can help you avoid issues in the future. For tips and ongoing responsibilities, see While You’re On Universal Credit.
For a deeper understanding of the legal framework behind Universal Credit migration and sanctions, refer to the Social Security and Child Support (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2018 and the Universal Credit sanctions. These regulations set out the rules for how Universal Credit is administered and what happens during managed migration.
Additional Support and Related Benefits During Migration
When moving to Universal Credit, it’s important to understand the extra support and benefits you may be entitled to during the migration process. Universal Credit can help with housing costs, replacing Housing Benefit for most people. The rules around this change are set out in The Universal Credit (Managed Migration) Regulations 2018](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukdsi/2018/9780111174265), which detail how Housing Benefit is affected when you switch to Universal Credit. If you need more advice on what support is available for your housing situation, our [Help with Housing guide explains your options and where to get assistance.
If you have children, you may be wondering how Universal Credit migration affects Child Benefit. While Universal Credit is separate from Child Benefit, changes in your circumstances or income during migration could impact your eligibility. For more information on how this works, visit our page on Eligibility for Child Benefit. You can also read about recent legal developments and how they might affect families in the context of Child Benefit.
Migration to Universal Credit can also open up access to other forms of help, such as budgeting support or advice services. It’s worth exploring all available benefits and support to make sure you’re getting the financial assistance you need. If you’re unsure about your entitlements or need extra guidance during the transition, our related guides and support services can help you navigate this process with confidence.
