government is making some big changes to the benefits system, and it’s important for people who receive benefits to know what’s happening. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has sent out an urgent warning to hundreds of thousands of people who currently get certain types of benefits. These benefits, often called “legacy benefits,” are being phased out and replaced with a single system called Universal Credit.
Some of the benefits that are being replaced include Tax Credits, Housing Benefit, Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance, and Income-Related Employment and Support Allowance. The first one to stop is Tax Credits, which will end completely in April this year. After that, other benefits will also be phased out over time.
If you’re currently receiving any of these older benefits, you’ll be moved to Universal Credit through a process called Managed Migration. This means you’ll get a letter in the post, called a “migration notice,” which will explain what’s happening and what you need to do.
When you get this letter, it’s really important to act quickly. You’ll have three months to apply for Universal Credit. If you don’t apply within that time, your current benefits will stop. But don’t worry—you don’t need to do anything until you receive your migration notice letter.
Some benefits won’t be affected by these changes. For example, Personal Independence Payment (PIP) will stay the same. Housing Benefit will also continue if you live in supported or temporary accommodation. If you live in these types of housing, your local council will keep paying your Housing Benefit.
However, if you don’t apply for Universal Credit, your Housing Benefit will continue, but your other benefits or tax credits will stop.
The government is encouraging everyone who needs help with this transition to contact the DWP. They want to make sure the process is as smooth as possible for everyone. If you’re unsure about anything or need support, you can find more information on the government’s website: Move to Universal Credit if you get a Migration Notice letter – GOV.UK.
Sir Stephen Timms, the minister for Social Security and Disability, has said that while three months might seem like a long time, it’s easy to get distracted by other things in life. He’s urging people not to delay and to respond to their migration notice as soon as possible to make sure they don’t lose their benefits. He also said that the DWP is committed to helping people through this change and that their staff will be available to provide support.
In short, if you receive a letter about these changes, make sure to read it carefully and take action within three months. If you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to the DWP or visit their website for more information.
