If you receive a Universal Credit Managed Migration Notice letter, don’t ignore it. You have 3 months to claim Universal Credit before your current benefits or tax credits end. If you miss the deadline, your benefits will stop the day before the deadline.
What is Universal Credit Managed Migration?
The Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) is moving people from legacy benefits like Housing Benefit, Employment Support Allowance, and Tax Credits to Universal Credit.
Do not take any action until you receive a Universal Credit Migration Letter.
Key Information in the Migration Letter:
- The need to claim Universal Credit instead of your current benefits.
- The ‘deadline day’ to make your claim.
- What happens if you don’t claim in time.
- How to claim Universal Credit, including information for joint claims and couples.
Transitional Protection:
Your transitional protection will end if:
- Your Universal Credit award increases to match your previous benefits.
- Your Universal Credit entitlement drops to zero.
- You have a significant change in circumstances.
What If I Miss the 3-Month Deadline?
We strongly recommend you claim by the deadline. The DWP may extend the deadline by one month at their discretion. If you miss the final deadline:
- Your legacy benefits will stop immediately.
- You won’t get transitional protection.
- Your Universal Credit won’t be backdated.
How do I pay my rent once I’m on Universal Credit?
Under Universal Credit, benefits are paid monthly in one lump sum. Previously, housing benefits might have been paid directly to us by the council. Now, you receive the housing cost, and you need to pay your rent yourself. In Scotland, you can request for housing costs to be paid directly to your landlord. Most tenants use Direct Debit to pay their rent. We can help you set up a Direct Debit to make sure your payments are on time.
Need Help?
Contact our Tenancy Support Service Team at 01592 630922 or email tssteam@kha.scot for help with this change.
