Universal Credit Managed Migration is starting in South Wales from October 2023. Working Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit are coming to an end, and will be replaced by Universal Credit.
Here’s everything you need to know about the switch…
Managed Migration, also known as ‘Move 2 UC’, is a process being run by the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) because the way you claim your benefits is changing. Legacy benefits are slowly coming to end as Working Tax Credits and Child Tax Credits are being replaced by Universal Credit (UC).
The switch from these Tax Credits to Universal Credit is not an automatic process. It’s important for anyone receiving these benefits to make a claim for UC, otherwise your payments will stop.
What do I need to do?
If you currently receive tax credits, you will get a letter from the DWP or HMRC letting you know that you need to make a claim for UC.
When you get this letter, there will be instructions on how to make a claim for UC. The deadline for making this claim is within three months of receiving the letter.
Remember – you won’t be moved automatically, so it’s important that you apply for UC when you receive this letter.
What if I have outstanding overpayments?
If you’re concerned about how your UC might be impacted by repaying overpayments, contact HMRC before making your claim. You might be able to arrange a more affordable repayment plan with them.
What help is available?
If you have any questions or concerns, there’s lot of support available to help you:
- You can call the Universal Credit Migration Notice helpline for free on 0800 169 0328
- You can visit your local Job Centre at 2 – 6 Charles Street NP20 1JR
- You can get free and independent support from Citizens Advice. You can visit your local Citizens Advice centre, call the Help to Claim service on 0800 144 8444, or visit the Citizens Advice website.
- You can also get help from the Advice Local website.
What can I do to prepare?
- Visit our money advice page to find out more about budgeting, UC, and other financial help.
- You can use the government’s benefits calculator to check how much UC you’re entitled to, based on your circumstances.
- You can find out more about how the HMRC may recover any outstanding debts you have by taking money directly from your UC payment.
- Remember to check your savings. If you are claiming Working Tax Credits and Child Tax Credits and have over £16,000 in savings, you can still make a claim for UC one year after switching over.
Remember, we are here to help you. If you have any questions or need advice, please get in touch with us by telephone on 01633 381 111 or email customer.accounts@newportcityhomes.com.