The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a critical warning to hundreds of thousands of households across the UK, confirming that several legacy benefits will be terminated next year as the final shift to Universal Credit takes place.
Key Benefits Ending in April 2026
Income Support and Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) will officially cease on 1 April 2026. The DWP has stated that by this date, it expects no one to still be claiming these benefits. This follows the already completed end of Working Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit.
The department is currently in the process of sending out 'migration notices' to those still claiming the old-style benefits. These include Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) and Housing Benefit, except for people in supported or temporary accommodation.
The Crucial Letter and Deadline
If you receive a migration notice, you must act. The letter provides a deadline, typically three months from the date you receive it, by which you must make a claim for Universal Credit. Your entitlement to the old benefits will stop just two weeks after this deadline date.
It is vital to apply by the specified date to ensure your payments continue without interruption. The DWP has confirmed that if you apply after your personal deadline, you will not be eligible for 'transitional protection' – a top-up designed to safeguard your income.
Financial Protection and Who Gains
According to a 2022 DWP analysis, 55% of legacy benefit claimants will be better off financially under Universal Credit. However, 35% would see a lower entitlement. To support this group, the DWP automatically applies transitional protection.
This protection tops up a Universal Credit award to match the previous legacy benefit amount. The protection continues unless your circumstances change, gradually eroding over time. The Gov.uk website states that many will get at least the same amount, but applying late forfeits this safety net.
The DWP has noted an increase in the number of migration notices being sent out this year. Claimants who feel they cannot meet their deadline can contact the department to request an extension. Choosing not to claim Universal Credit at all will still result in your existing benefits ending.
