How you make a claim for Universal Credit

Universal Credit online account

To make a claim you must first create a secure Universal Credit online account. 

You can create your Universal Credit online account at Universal Credit online - GOV.UK.

You must submit your claim within 28 days of creating your account. If you don’t submit your claim within 28 days, you will need to create a new account. You will get your first payment about five weeks after you submit your claim.

Once you have created your Universal Credit account you can use it to find information about your claim, to contact Universal Credit and to provide information about your claim. Messages to your online account will be answered as soon as possible during business hours.

What you need to claim Universal Credit 

• your email address
• details of the bank or building society account you want your Universal Credit paid into
• documents to confirm your identity (for example, a UK driving licence or a household bill)
• details of any income from work, and any other income (for example, from an insurance policy)
• details of your savings, investments and assets
• details of any other benefits you’re getting
• details of your housing costs (including any service charges, but not rates) and your landlord’s details, if you have one
• details of the people who live in your home

The Universal Credit Personal Planner will tell you what you need to do to prepare for claiming Universal Credit.

If you need help with your claim, you can contact Universal Credit through  your Universal Credit online account, speak to your Work Coach in your local Jobs & Benefits office or phone the Universal Credit Service Centre.

Information videos can help explain the key stages in claiming Universal Credit.

If you consider moving to Universal Credit from another benefit

When you claim Universal Credit, any benefits or tax credits it replaces will stop.  If you are considering a move to Universal Credit from another benefit, you can check your eligibility.  You should seek independent advice before making a claim for Universal Credit. 

You can also use a benefit calculator to check how much you may get.