Universal Credit is a means-tested welfare benefit in the United Kingdom that was introduced in 2013 to replace six existing means-tested benefits:
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Employment and Support Allowance
- Housing Benefit
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
Universal Credit is administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and is intended to simplify the benefits system and provide support to people who are on a low income or out of work.
To be eligible for Universal Credit, you must be aged 18 or over, have no more than £16,000 in savings. You can be in work or unemployed and be eligible for Universal Credit. The amount of Universal Credit that you will receive is based on your income and personal circumstances.