DWP Universal Credit switch message as it tells people to watch out for letters

People who get so-called legacy benefits are being alerted by the DWP about the ongoing switch to Universal Credit, raising concerns for households as the holiday season approaches. Birmingham Live shared a government statement advising recipients: "Move to Universal Credit if you get a migration notice letter.

"As one or more of your benefits will be ending soon, you need to move to Universal Credit (UC)." The cautionary advice continued: "To continue receiving financial support you must claim Universal Credit by the deadline date given in your letter. This is three months from the date the letter was sent out."

Legacy benefits, which are poised to end, encompass Housing Benefit, Child Tax Credit, Working Tax Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, and income-related Employment Support Allowance. Of particular note are those on the latter who also receive PIP - these individuals should give careful consideration to their transition onto UC.

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The shift isn't automatic for any current beneficiary of a legacy benefit. Rather, they have to lodge a new claim for UC.

Rollout notices dispatched during September aim to guide them through this process, including stringent observance of their particular deadlines, reports Plymouth Live. With a three-month window from the issuing of notices to apply for UC, anyone receiving this information in September could witness an interruption to their finances come December, when existing benefit provisions are slated to terminate automatically.

Moneyhelper has issued a warning to individuals not to overlook their migration notices and to "act quickly". They emphasised: "We also strongly recommend you get advice from a benefits specialist before you move from legacy benefits to Universal Credit," including the complimentary service provided by Citizen's Advice.

Moreover, claimants should be aware that Universal Credit (UC) is paid in arrears on a monthly basis, which means they will have to wait one full assessment period for their initial payment, equating to one calendar month. For those who may struggle financially due to this waiting period, there is an option to request an advance payment for support; however, it must be repaid within 24 months.