Universal Credit roll out
Mid Sussex is the latest area to join the Government’s flagship Univeral Credit scheme, an online application system that came into place on Wednesday 6th June.
Universal Credit will provide financial assistance for people of working age on a low income, including those in work, and is administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). It is a single monthly payment which will eventually replace Income Support, Income Related Job Seeker's Allowance, Income Related Employment Support Allowance, Housing Benefit, Working Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit.
Anyone receiving existing benefits will see no change, but will gradually be moved over to the new Universal Credit system over time. If your situation changes you will, in most circumstances, be moved over to the new Universal Credit and use that system from then on.
All new claimants from 6th June 2018 will need to apply online at www.gov.uk/apply-universal-credit
Universal Credit aims to simplify the complex process and many different elements involved in applying for financial support.
Computers are available in our reception area and at local libraries for applicants to use. Local Citizens Advice centres will also provide Assisted Digital and Personal Budgeting Support to customers in receipt of, or applying for, Universal Credit and we plan to have a presence in Job Centres within the district.
Council Tax Support is not included in the switch to Universal Credit and applications must continue to be made to the local authority. In addition, we have a limited fund of Discretionary Housing Payment to help those with a shortfall of housing costs within their Universal Credit.
Full details on Universal Credit including how to apply for Council Tax Support and DHP are available at https://www.midsussex.gov.uk/revsandbens/benefits/universal-credit/