This was initially set to be in place for a year. However, in the Spring Budget on 3rd March 2021, Rishi Sunak announced that this uplift would remain in place for a further six months, until the end of September 2021 (with Working Tax Credit claimants receiving a £500 lump sum payment).
Therefore, from September 2021, most Universal Credit claimants will see a reduction in Standard Allowance of £20 per week (£86.67 per month) from October 2021.
When will UC claimants first see the drop?
From the Monthly Assessment Period (MAP) which ends on or after 6th October 2021 claimants’ UC awards will include the normal, lower, standard allowance of:
- £257.33 – single claimant under 25
- £324.84 – single claimant age 25+
- £403.93 – couple both under 25
- £509.91 – couple one or both age 25+.
Any MAP which ends on or before 5th October should still include the higher amount.
Are claimants being warned about the change to the Universal Credit uplift?
The DWP is now notifying claimants through their UC journals about when their UC will reduce.
Do you still need help?
Our experienced advisors can answer all manner of questions about your benefits and the changes to the Universal Credit uplift.
If you would like to speak to a benefits advisor, call 0300 3300 900, selecting options 2, 2 and 3.