Universal Credit
What is Universal Credit?
Universal Credit is administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and aims to make the welfare system simpler by replacing six benefits and tax credits with a single monthly payment.
Universal Credit replaces:
- Housing Benefit
- Income Support
- Income-Based Job Seekers Allowance
- Income-related Employment & Support Allowance
- Child Tax Credits
- Working Tax Credits
Further details on Universal Credit can be found in 'Your Guide to Universal Credit' and other related documents within the documents section of this page.
How to claim Universal Credit
Applications to Universal Credit must be made online. You can find the link to apply for Universal Credit within the external links section of this page. To apply for Universal Credit you must have a bank account and an email address.
Remember to include details of your rent when you claim Universal Credit so that your housing costs are included in your claim.
You will be given an online account to manage known as a journal which you will be advised by DWP how and when to access
Council Tax Reduction
Your claim for Universal Credit does NOT include any council tax reduction you may be entitled to.
Once you have made a claim for Universal Credit, you must make a separate claim to Inverclyde Council for your council tax reduction.
A shortened application form for Council Tax Reduction for Universal Credit claimants can be found within the documents section of this page.