The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has rolled out significant changes to Universal Credit eligibility rules, potentially affecting thousands of claimants across the UK. These adjustments aim to streamline the welfare system but may leave some vulnerable individuals facing financial uncertainty.
Key Changes to Universal Credit
The revised rules introduce stricter criteria for claimants, particularly focusing on:
- Work requirements: Increased expectations for job-seeking activities
- Income thresholds: Adjusted calculations for household earnings
- Asset assessments: New evaluations of savings and property ownership
Who Will Be Most Affected?
Experts suggest these changes will disproportionately impact:
- Part-time workers with fluctuating incomes
- Self-employed individuals with seasonal earnings
- Claimants with modest savings or second properties
What Claimants Should Do Now
If you currently receive Universal Credit or are considering applying:
- Review your circumstances against the new criteria
- Update your journal with any changes in employment or income
- Seek advice from Citizens Advice or welfare rights organisations
The DWP maintains these changes will create a fairer system, but charities warn they could push more families into poverty during the cost-of-living crisis.
