Exciting News for Universal Credit 2024 – New Payment Dates, Amounts and Eligibility

Universal Credit (UC) is a crucial benefit for many UK residents, especially as the cost of living continues to rise. In 2024, there have been significant updates to UC, including an increase in benefits and changes to payment schedules. Here’s a comprehensive look at the latest developments in Universal Credit.

Increase

In April 2024, Universal Credit benefits saw a significant increase of 6.7% to help claimants cope with rising living costs. However, the implementation timing has caused confusion and frustration among claimants, as many still struggle to afford essential items. Advocacy groups, including the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and Big Issue, supported by over 100 organizations, are pushing for guaranteed essentials to be included in UC. This guarantee would ensure that recipients can afford basic necessities, providing a more secure financial base.

Dates

Universal Credit operates on a monthly assessment period, which means benefits are calculated and paid on a rolling month-to-month basis. For example, if your assessment period began on 26 March and ended on 25 April, your payment on 2 May would be calculated at the previous rate. This system can lead to delays in the disbursement of new rates, causing confusion for recipients. Some beneficiaries may only see the increased amount reflected in their bank accounts by July 2024.

Payment Dates

Month	Assessment Period Start	Assessment Period End	Payment Date
April	26 March	25 April	2 May
May	26 April	25 May	2 June
June	26 May	25 June	2 July
July	26 June	25 July	2 August

Eligibility

To qualify for the new rates of Universal Credit, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Must be a UK resident.
• Must be at least 18 years old and below the State Pension Age (66 years).
• Eligible if unemployed, working, or unable to work due to severe disability or illness.
• Income and assets must be below £16,000.

If unsure about eligibility, applicants can use the benefits calculator tool on the Government of the UK’s official portal.

Amount

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has been urged to reconsider the timing and administration of UC payments to ensure quicker adjustments for those in need. The new rates include a rise of £470 expected to be funded in the upcoming month. However, automatic deductions by the DWP can significantly reduce the actual amount of support received, causing recipients to lose over a billion annually. Advocacy groups continue to push for more substantial and immediate adjustments to cover living expenses adequately.

UC Payment Amounts

Recipient Category	Previous Amount	New Amount
Single under 25	£265.31	£283.32
Single 25 or over	£334.91	£356.32
Joint claimants both under 25	£416.45	£444.33
Joint claimants one or both 25+	£525.72	£561.78

Possible Increase

There is growing pressure for further increases in Universal Credit to align with the current cost of living. The 6.7% rise was based on the inflation rate in September, but ongoing economic pressures suggest that this is insufficient. According to the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, the standard allowance for individuals aged 25 and over is about £30 less per week or £120 less per month than what is required to cover basic expenses.

Claimants seeking additional support can explore avenues such as charitable organizations, local councils, and community groups, which provide supplemental aid like food banks and financial counseling. These resources play a crucial role in bridging the gap until the new benefit rates fully take effect. It is essential for recipients to stay informed about their entitlements and seek available resources to manage their finances during this transitional period.

In conclusion, while the 6.7% increase in Universal Credit is a step in the right direction, it may not be enough to meet the growing financial needs of claimants. Advocacy for further increases and guaranteed essentials continues as claimants adjust to the new rates.

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