Completion date of Universal Credit extended to 2024

Date published: 20 February 2020


The date for the complete implementation of Universal Credit for claimants on legacy benefits has been extended to 2024.

Universal Credit replaces six previous benefits with a single monthly payment to provide support for people who are unemployed, in low-paid work or unable to work due to a disability or health condition.

As the number of people moving onto Universal Credit from the old benefit system is lower than forecast, with 900,000 more than expected remaining on the old system, a further nine months will be added to the estimated completion date. This is based on the estimated transfer of 100,000 claimants per month.

Additionally, during the Brexit transition period until 31 December 2020, there will be no changes to the rules on claiming UK benefits and State Pension in the EEA or Switzerland, or to the rules for EU citizens in the UK.

More information is available here:

Controversial from the start, the government admitted for the first-time last year that problems with the introduction of the Universal Credit system had driven people to food banks as people were left without money due to payment delays.

The roll-out has been plagued by delays to payments, which have left tens of thousands of vulnerable people in rental arrears and some even dependent on food banks.

A report from Crisis also claimed single people and small families receiving Universal Credit were at increasing risk of homelessness in parts of the north west, including Oldham and Rochdale, because of a persistent shortfall between the benefit and the true cost of renting, leaving them in rental arrears.

Minister for Welfare Delivery Will Quince said: “Universal Credit is the biggest change to the welfare system in a generation, bringing together six overlapping benefits into one monthly payment and offering support to some of the most vulnerable people in society.

“It is right that we revisit our forecasts and plan, and re-plan accordingly - ensuring that the process is working well for people on benefits.

“Claimants will not lose money due to this forecasting change.”

People can also speak to Citizens Advice, who offer a free ‘help to claim’ service for Universal Credit, funded by the department.

Anyone who thinks they may be eligible for Universal Credit, which is now available in every jobcentre across the UK, can check online.

Up to 100% advance payments are available for claimants and budgeting support is available for anyone who needs extra help.

With the benefit now available in all jobcentres, the number of people on the benefit will continue to rise; this does not necessarily signify an increase in unemployment for the area.

For more information about Universal Credit, please visit:

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