Universal Credit Migration

Our tenants have started receiving letters from the Department of Work and Pensions about a managed migration to Universal Credit (UC).

Those affected will have three months to apply for Universal Credit or they may lose their entitlement, as their 'legacy benefits' will stop - these include Housing Benefit, Tax Credits, Income Support and ESA.

Tenants should be aware that they will receive an initial letter from the DWP advising that they will soon be affected by the migration, with a second letter following when they are due to be migrated. If applicants apply following this second letter they will be entitled to transitional protection, ensuring they receive at least the same amount as they did in legacy benefits. If tenants apply prior to this second letter they will not receive this transitional protection.

When you make a claim it will take around 4-5 weeks until you receive your first UC payment. You should receive a part-payment of your legacy benefit before your first UC payment.

As Universal Credit replaces Housing Benefit tenants will also receive money to cover their rent, and this should be paid to the Association as quickly as possible. Tenants may wish to set up a Direct Debit so that the rent payment is taken on the same day you receive your Universal Credit.

If you have received this letter we would urge you to contact us. You can complete the form on this page and we will get back to you as quickly as possible.