Universal Credit questions and answers
Short, plain answers to the questions people ask most about Universal Credit, checked against GOV.UK. Each answer links to a fuller guide. For your own figures, use a benefits calculator or ask through your journal.
Claiming
Who can get Universal Credit?
People on a low income, out of work, or unable to work because of illness or disability. You must live in the UK, be 18 or over (with some exceptions at 16–17), be under State Pension age and have £16,000 or less in savings and investments. How to claim.
Can I claim if I work?
Yes. There is no limit on the hours you can work. Your payment goes down by 55p for every £1 you earn, after any work allowance you are entitled to (for example if you have children or a disability). Most employers report your pay automatically.
My partner and I live together — do we both claim?
Yes, you make one joint claim for the household, even if your partner is not eligible. Both incomes and savings count, and each of you has your own claimant commitment.
Money
How much is Universal Credit?
| Monthly standard allowance (2026/27) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Single, under 25 | £338.58 |
| Single, 25 or over | £424.90 |
| Couple, both under 25 | £528.34 |
| Couple, either 25 or over | £666.97 |
Extra amounts may be added: £303.94 a month for each child (plus £47.94 for a first child born before 6 April 2017), help for disabled children, a health element, the carer element (£209.34), up to 85% of childcare costs and help with rent.
Do savings affect it?
Over £16,000 and you cannot get Universal Credit. Between £6,000 and £16,000, your payment is reduced by £4.35 a month for every £250 (or part of £250) above £6,000.
Why is my payment lower than expected?
Common reasons are earnings, repaying an advance, past overpayments, debts such as Council Tax arrears or utility bills paid from your benefit, the benefit cap, savings over £6,000, or a sanction. Your statement shows the breakdown.
Payments
When is Universal Credit paid?
Monthly, on the same date each month, about seven days after your assessment period ends. If the date falls on a weekend or bank holiday you are paid on the working day before. People in Scotland can choose to be paid twice a month. See payments.
How long is the wait for the first payment?
Usually about five weeks. You can ask for an advance of up to your first estimated payment, which you repay over up to 24 months. Advances and hardship payments.
Your claim
What is the claimant commitment?
Your agreement about what you will do to prepare for work, look for work or increase your earnings. It depends on your situation — for example health, caring or a child under 13. Not doing what you agreed without a good reason can lead to a sanction.
What changes do I need to report?
Anything that could affect your payment: moving home, a change in rent, starting or stopping work, a new partner, a baby, a change in health, or savings going up. Report through your online account as soon as possible.
Is help for disability or caring added automatically?
No. Extra amounts are not added automatically — you need to report that you have become eligible, for example when you start caring for someone.
Getting help
What is the Universal Credit phone number?
0800 328 5644 (Welsh 0800 328 1744), Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm. Free. Relay UK: 18001 then 0800 328 5644. See all contact numbers.
What if I disagree with a decision?
Ask for a mandatory reconsideration, usually within a month, then appeal to the tribunal. How to appeal.
Last checked against official sources: 24 October 2026. Numbers, amounts and opening hours can change — if in doubt, check GOV.UK.