1. What is universal credit

Universal credit (UC) is a new means-tested benefit for people of working age.

UC has now been rolled out in all areas, so you cannot usually make a new claim for a benefit or tax credit that UC is replacing and must claim UC instead (for an exception for housing benefit see here). Once you claim UC, you remain on UC (provided you are still eligible), even if your circumstances change.

UC replaces the following benefits and tax credits:

•income support;
•income-based jobseeker’s allowance;
•income-related employment and support allowance;
•housing benefit;
•child tax credit;
•working tax credit.

If you are a full-time student, you are only eligible for UC in some circumstances – broadly, if you are a parent, have a disability, if you are a young student in non-advanced education and without parental support, or if you have a partner who is not a student.

The amount you get is based on your circumstances (eg, whether you have a partner or child, or care for someone with a disability) and is usually affected by any grant, loan or other income you have.