Apply for benefits and financial support

Universal Credit is paid by the UK government to help with living costs. It's designed to make the welfare system simpler by replacing six benefits, including tax credits, with a single monthly payment.

Universal Credit is paid monthly in arrears and payments go directly into your bank account. It is designed to cover your food and living expenses, plus your housing costs.

Apply for Universal Credit on GOV.UK

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Who is eligible

You may be able to get universal credit if:

• you’re on a low income or out of work
• you’re 18 or over (there are some exceptions if you’re 16 to 17)
• you’re under state pension age (or your partner is)
• you and your partner have £16,000 or less in savings between you
• you live in the UK

What you need to apply

You’ll need the following when you make your application:

• your national insurance number
• details of any savings held in any bank, building society or Post Office accounts
• your tenancy agreement (where applicable)
• details of other income
• details of other benefits you receive
• details of your household make up maybe required (for example your partner's income)
• your email address and telephone number
• proof of identity for example passport, driver’s licence or bank card.

Universal Credit can only be backdated in exceptional circumstances so don’t delay in applying if your circumstances change.