Applying for Universal Credit

What is it?

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is introduced Full Service Universal Credit in East Ayrshire in October 2017.

The DWP manages and administers this benefit, not the Council.

The DWP have three Job Centres covering East Ayrshire (Cumnock, Kilmarnock and Ayr) and they are involved in the administration of Universal Credit alongside the Universal Credit Service Centre.

Find out more about Universal Credit, eligibility and what it might mean for you on the Government website.

You can also contact the Universal Credit Helpline on 0800 328 5644 or East Ayrshire Universal Credit Support Team on 01563 503280 and email address [email protected].uk they can provide assistance and support for all East Ayrshire residents to make and maintain a claim.

What does it replace?

Universal Credit simplifies the welfare system by merging six benefits into one, and replaces:

• Jobseeker’s Allowance (income-based)
• Employment and Support Allowance (income-based)
• Income Support
• Child Tax Credit
• Working Tax Credit
• Housing Benefit 

It aims to:

• improve claimants’ incentive to work
• make it easier for them to move in and out of work
• be easier to understand than the existing benefits system
• reduce poverty among people on low incomes
• process changes of circumstance in real time and reduce error
• be more cost effective to operate 

One of the big changes is that instead of benefits being paid weekly, you will now be paid monthly in arrears, to emulate a working wage. 

You will also be responsible for paying rent directly to your landlord. 

If you are liable to pay Council Tax and your income and savings are below a certain level you may be entitled to Council Tax Reduction, you must complete a Council Tax Reduction Application Form. 

Need a helping hand?

These are big changes and you may be worried about how you are going to manage.

The most important thing to do is ask for assistance – you don’t have to go it alone.

Universal Credit will have a significant impact on how and when you are paid.

For help, guidance and support, in planning, preparing and budgeting for these changes, it may be helpful to get in touch with one of the following organisations:

• DWP – for online support and guidance with regards to Universal Credit Personal Planner  and Help with Managing your Money
• East Ayrshire Universal Credit Support Team – assistance and support for all East Ayrshire residents to make and maintain a claim
• EA Money – a local web resource that will connect you to the people best placed to help. East Ayrshire Money can put you in touch with the appropriate local organisation best placed to give you the help and support you need. Alternatively phone FREE on 0800 389 7750 between 10am and 4pm
• Citizens’ Advice Bureau – Scotland’s largest independent advice network. There’s a local office in Kilmarnock at The Gateway Centre. Call on 01563 544744.
• Money Advice Scotland – free independent advice on debt and financial management

Universal credit and rented housing

These guides provide information about Universal Credit to help tenants get ready for the direct payment of housing costs and offer support if you are having difficulty in paying their rent.

• Landlord Support Packs