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Universal Credit

What is Universal Credit?

Universal Credit is a monthly payment that helps with living costs. In Scotland, it's paid monthly or twice a month. You may be eligible if you're out of work, on a low income, or unable to work. 

 

It is a means-tested benefit that will top up your income to a certain amount set by the Government. You do not pay tax on Universal Credit.

 

You can receive a standard amount that depends on your age and whether you are single or part of a couple.

 

There are also additional amounts that may apply to you depending on your circumstances, for example if you have children or are a carer.

Can I claim Universal Credit?

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You can claim Universal Credit if you:

• have a low income and savings of £16,000 or less

• be under State Pension age (67), or have a partner who is under 67

• you must live in the UK

• are not in full-time education

• accept a ‘claimant commitment’.

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A claimant commitment sets out what you, in your circumstances, have to do to receive Universal Credit.

If you are in a couple, one of you must be below State Pension age. If you are both above State Pension age you might be able to claim Pension Credit instead. Contact Deafblind Scotland’s Welfare Rights team.

 

How do I claim?

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If you are able to claim online, you will be expected to set up an account at www.gov.uk/apply-universal-credit You can then use your account to manage your claim.

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If you live with a partner, you will each need to create an account. These must be linked together when you claim.

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If you cannot apply online, you can call the Universal Credit helpline on 0800 328 5644. Or contact Deafblind Scotland’s Welfare Rights Team.

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When making a claim, it is a good idea to have the following details to hand for yourself (and your partner):

• National Insurance number

• bank account details

• information about your income and savings

• details of the household - your partner and other people living with you

• details of any housing costs (such as rent and service charges)

• your email address (and a different one for your partner).

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BSL video relay service from citizens advice.jpg

Citizen's Advice have recently launched a Video Relay Service (VRS) which gives people access to a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter with no appointment necessary via their website https://www.cas.org.uk/get-advice/help-claim/british-sign-language-service-universal-credit

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The Interpreter will call the Citizen's Advice service and help someone who communicates using BSL to get advice. they will assist from your first call to your first full correct UC payment. 

 

This advice is free, independent and confidential.

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Below is a video that explains:

  • what Universal Credit is

  • what CA BSL service can help you with

  • how to get ready to make a BSL-interpreted call

To make a BSL call using the Citizen's Advice BSL Service visit:

https://www.cas.org.uk/get-advice/help-claim/british-sign-language-service-universal-credit

Other benefits for recipients of Universal Credit

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Recipients of Universal Credit are automatically eligible for the following benefits:

How to Get Help

You can contact Deafblind Scotland’s Welfare Rights Team for support and advice.

Email: wr@dbscotland.org.uk

Phone: 0141 777 5835

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