DWP Issues Universal Credit Update Over Letters to Claimants
The Department for Work and Pensions has issued a significant update regarding Universal Credit, confirming that letters are being dispatched to certain claimants as part of ongoing changes to the benefits system. This communication relates to the final stages of migrating millions from older legacy benefits to the newer Universal Credit framework.
Legacy Benefit Migration Progress
The process of moving claimants from legacy benefits to Universal Credit has been underway in phases for several years, with the majority of individuals having already transitioned. The DWP previously announced that several legacy benefits would cease at the end of March 2026 as part of this comprehensive project.
The six legacy benefits included in the migration scheme are:
- Income-based Jobseekers Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Income Support
- Housing Benefit
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit
DWP Statement and Support Measures
When questioned about the current status of the migration and the remaining claimants, a DWP spokesperson provided clarification. "The department has been migrating people from legacy benefits to Universal Credit since 2022 and most have now moved," the spokesperson stated. "Help is at hand for those making the move to Universal Credit, including our dedicated helpline, guidance on gov.uk, and the Citizens Advice's free and independent Help to Claim service."
The spokesperson further confirmed that all legacy benefit claimants who receive a migration notice will continue to receive their existing benefits until they either transition to Universal Credit or the specified deadline passes. These migration notices are formal letters inviting recipients to apply for Universal Credit.
Application Deadlines and Enhanced Support
Claimants typically have a three-month window to submit their Universal Credit application after receiving a migration notice to ensure uninterrupted payments. Failure to apply by the deadline will result in the cessation of payments from the old legacy benefit.
For more vulnerable claimants, particularly those on Employment and Support Allowance and Income Support, the DWP offers an enhanced support journey. This additional assistance may include personalised phone calls and, in some cases, home visits to help with completing the application and facilitating a smooth transition.
The department has also assured claimants that if their circumstances remain unchanged, their benefit entitlement will not decrease when they move to Universal Credit, providing financial stability during the migration process.
