The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has delivered a significant update regarding the ongoing transition to Universal Credit, a change that impacts thousands of individuals currently receiving older, 'legacy' benefits.
What is Changing and Who is Affected?
The government's focus is now squarely on moving specific groups onto the new, single benefit system. The current priority is migrating claimants who are on Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) only, or those receiving both ESA and Housing Benefit. Universal Credit is replacing six previous benefits: income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, income-related ESA, Income Support, Housing Benefit, Child Tax Credit, and Working Tax Credit.
If you are required to move, you will receive a formal 'migration notice' letter through the post. This letter provides a three-month window to submit a claim for Universal Credit. It is crucial to act within this period, as your existing legacy benefit payments will cease after the deadline.
Enhanced Support and Key Statistics
Recognising that some people may need extra help, the DWP operates an 'enhanced support journey' for more vulnerable claimants. This can involve proactive phone calls from officials or even arranged home visits to assist with the application process.
In a recent parliamentary exchange, Conservative MP Mel Stride sought clarity on the progress of the migration. In response, DWP minister Sir Stephen Timms provided a key date for further information, stating: "This information will be published as part of a routinely released statistical series in February 2026."
Recent DWP data sheds light on the scale of the change. Between July 2022 and September 2025, migration notices were sent to approximately 2.3 million individual claimants. Of this group, around 1.8 million people proceeded to make a claim for Universal Credit.
Claim Rates and Payment Details
The department's figures indicate a high uptake rate. Of all households sent a migration notice up to the end of May 2025, 85 percent submitted a claim for the new benefit. The remaining 15 percent did not claim, resulting in the termination of their legacy benefits.
The document clarifies the process, noting: "Legacy benefit customers receiving a migration notice are given a period of three months within which to claim. They may also be sent one or more reminders and the claim deadline may be extended."
For those moving onto the system, the monthly standard allowance for Universal Credit is currently set at:
- Single and under 25: £316.98
- Single and 25 or over: £400.14
- Couple, both under 25: £497.55 (for both)
- Couple, either 25 or over: £628.10 (for both)
It is important to note that claimants may be eligible for additional amounts depending on their circumstances, such as having children or a health condition or disability.
