Universal Credit Benefits

Benefits

Our benefits system is changing, do you know how it will affect you?

With the introduction of Welfare Reform legislation, Universal Credit is being rolled out as the main means tested benefit for adults of working age. To be entitled to Universal Credit, you must be aged 18 or over and be under State Pension age.

Universal Credit will replace:

·         Income support

·         Income based jobseeker’s allowance

·         Income related employment and support allowance

·         Housing benefit

·         Child tax credit

·         Working tax credit

Universal Credit will be introduced for new claims across Northern Ireland in stages from September 2017 to September 2018. If you currently receive any of the six benefits listed above, you will be transferred to Universal Credit between July 2019 and March 2022.

However, if your circumstances change after Universal Credit has been introduced in your area, you may move to Universal Credit at that time.

The new benefit system will include support for the cost of housing, children and childcare, as well as financial support for disabled people, carers and people who are too ill to work.

Who to ask about your benefits

Your nearest Social Security or Jobs & Benefits office will help you with any questions relating to your specific needs. You can search for your nearest officer at:

https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/contacts/jobs-benefits-offices-jobcentres-and-social-security-offices

Useful Contacts

Advice NI

Rushfield Avenue

Belfast

BT7 3FP

Telephone: 028 9064 5919

Email: [email protected]

Independent Welfare Changes Helpline

0808 802 0020

The Appeals Service (NI)

PO Box 2202

Belfast

BT1 9YJ

Telephone: 028 9054 4000

Email: [email protected]