A confusing list of schemes, elements and entitlements makes it difficult for parents to work out the net costs of childcare. Carri Swann provides a summary for advisers and answers some recurring questions.

​Sabrina Dubash looks at problems for universal credit (UC) claimants whose first language is not English.

​Owen Stevens reviews DWP responses to claimant deaths.

In many cases, the only type of employment and support allowance (ESA) now available is ‘new-style’ ESA. That is contributory ESA claimed under the universal credit (UC) system. But what about ‘old-style’ ESA? Simon Osborne looks at what that is and who might still be able to get it.

Some universal credit (UC) claimants can earn up to a certain level each month without their earnings affecting their award. This is known as a work allowance. Carri Swann explains who gets a work allowance, how much difference it makes in practice and issues for advisers to look out for.

​Rosie Mears and Martin Williams consider whether a request for universal credit (UC) for an earlier period is required before a claim is decided in order for backdating to be considered.

​Jon Shaw looks at the rules for the latest new Scottish benefit.

Jessica Strode reviews the law on the national insurance number (NINo) requirement, before considering official policy on operating the requirement and a possible legal challenge.

The coronavirus pandemic has led to many more people being affected by the benefit cap. Owen Stevens revisits the ‘grace period’ exemption from the universal credit benefit cap.

​Simon Osborne reports on recent legal and policy developments regarding deductions from universal credit (UC).

​Mark Willis reviews coronavirus-related changes from April 2021.

New provision has been made for inclusion of a transitional SDP element in the calculation of universal credit (UC) awards. Owen ​Stevens examines these provisions.