Universal Credit UK: Allowance and extra payments claimants could receive
UNIVERSAL CREDIT often provides a helping hand for those who are on low income or out of work. Express.co.uk explains the standard allowance for the benefit, and extra payments claimants could receive.
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Universal Credit is a living support payment issued by the Department for Work and Pensions, with the aim of assisting with everyday costs. It is issued monthly to those who are eligible directly into a selected bank account or building society. But for many, it is important to know how much they could receive on the benefit, and whether they could be entitled to additional payments.
While Universal Credit payments do vary from person to person, there is a standard allowance paid to those who are eligible, dependent on their personal circumstances.
For the standard allowance, this is based on age and relationship status.
A single person who is under the age of 25 is entitled to £342.72 per month, with single individuals over the age of 25 receiving £409.89.
People who are in a couple under the age of 25 will receive £488.59 to split between them, with couples over 25 receiving £594.04 to share.
But it is important to note that these figures only dictate a standard allowance, and some individuals could be eligible to receive further benefit on top.
Those in two-child families can receive an extra amount for each of their children.
But those with three or more children will receive an extra amount for at least two children, only receiving extra if any of the following are true:
- A person has children born before April 6, 2017
- A person was already claiming for three or more children
- Other exceptional circumstances apply
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For a first child born before April 6, 2017, claimants can receive £281.25, but for first children born on or after this date, the amount decreases to £235.83.
Second children and any other eligible children will entitle a claimant to £235.83 per child.
If a claimant has a disabled, or severely disabled child, then an extra amount of £128.25 or £400.29 is provided per month.
Those with a disability or health condition can also receive an extra payment in addition to their standard allowance.
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People who have a limited capability for work and work-related activity can claim £341.92 per month in extra benefit.
And those who have limited capability for work, who started health related Universal Credit or Employment Support Allowance before April 3, 2017 can receive £128.25.
If caring for a severely disabled person, additional financial support may be required, and this is readily offered by the government.
The gov.uk website states those who have a severely disabled child can also claim this benefit on top of their additional allowance.
Those who provide care for at least 35 hours a week for a severely disabled person who receives a disability related benefit can claim £16.92 in extra monthly allowance.
And finally, the Universal Credit system also provides help to those who need assistance meeting their housing costs.
This amount is dependent on age and circumstances, but can cover rent and some service charges.