Applying for Universal Credit

Prepare Your Information

Before you start the application, gather the information you’ll need:

• National Insurance number (you’ll need this to apply).

• Bank details (for payments).

• Proof of identity (e.g., passport, driving license, or birth certificate).

• Details of your income (if you work or receive any other benefits).

• Rent or housing information (if applicable).

• Medical information (if your condition affects your ability to work or carry out everyday activities).

Tip: Make a checklist of everything you need and gather it piece by piece. Take breaks if you feel overwhelmed.

Create a Universal Credit Account

You need to apply online by creating a Universal Credit account. This will be your portal for managing your application.

• Go to the official government website: Visit gov.uk/universal-credit.

• Create an account: Click on "Start Now" and follow the instructions to create a Universal Credit account. You’ll need to set up a username and password.

• Use your personal details: When creating your account, you will be asked for your name, address, email, and National Insurance number.

Tip: If the online application process feels difficult, you can ask someone you trust to help you set up the account. Some people find it easier to manage the process with someone they feel comfortable with.

Complete the Universal Credit Application Form

After setting up your account, you will need to complete your application form. This is where you will answer questions about your circumstances, such as your work status, income, and any health conditions.

Work out your circumstances: Answer questions about your work, health, living situation, and financial circumstances. Be honest about how any health conditions affect your day-to-day life.

• For example, you may need to explain how your condition impacts your ability to work or manage daily tasks.

Detail any medical conditions: If you have any health conditions that affect your ability to work, explain this clearly. You may be asked about your condition and how it limits your ability to carry out tasks like shopping, cooking, or socialising.

Tip: Write down your answers or take notes before you fill in the form to make it less overwhelming. This gives you a chance to think through your responses without pressure.

Submit Your Application

Once you’ve completed the form, double-check everything for accuracy and clarity. If you need to make changes, go back to the relevant section before submitting. After reviewing, submit the application.

• Submit the form: When you feel confident, submit the form. The application will be processed, and you will be asked to attend a follow-up appointment (usually a phone or video interview).

Tip: Save or print a copy of your application for reference. This is useful in case you need to refer back to any information during the process.

Prepare for the Phone Interview

After you’ve submitted your application, the next step is a phone or video interview. This is to clarify your situation and help the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) make a decision about your Universal Credit claim.

• Understand the process: During the interview, you will be asked about your work history, health conditions, and financial situation. You might also be asked about any disabilities or long-term conditions you have.

• Have your information ready: Have any documents or details about any medical conditions or work situation on hand. If possible, prepare answers to questions about how health conditions you may have affect your daily life.

• Ask for help if needed: If you find it hard to understand the questions or feel anxious, let the interviewer know. You can ask for the questions to be repeated or explained in a different way. You can also ask for someone to support you during the interview.

Tip: You can request a phone interview at a time that suits you best, or ask for more time to prepare.

Submit Your Evidence

The DWP may ask for additional evidence to support your application, particularly if you have a disability or health condition.

• Provide medical evidence: If you have a medical condition or disability that affects your ability to work, provide relevant documents, such as doctor’s letters, medical notes, or medical reports.

• Submit documents: You will be asked to upload or send documents like payslips, rent agreements, or evidence of savings and income.

Tip: If gathering all your documents feels overwhelming, break the task into smaller steps, and ask for help from someone you trust.

Wait for the Decision

Once the DWP has processed your application and interview, they will make a decision about your Universal Credit claim.

• Wait for the letter: The DWP will send a letter with their decision. This can take a few weeks, depending on your circumstances.

• Review the decision: If your claim is successful, the letter will explain how much you will receive and when your payments will start.

• If you’re denied: If your claim is denied, you can request a "mandatory reconsideration" or appeal the decision.

Tip: While waiting for the decision, check your Universal Credit account regularly for updates.

Manage Your Universal Credit Account

Once you’re awarded Universal Credit, you’ll need to manage your account online. This includes reporting any changes in your circumstances, such as changes in income, health, or living arrangements.

• Update your account: If anything changes (e.g., you start a new job or your health condition improves), make sure to update your account to keep your claim accurate.

• Stay on top of appointments: You may be asked to attend meetings or phone calls about your job search (if applicable). Make sure to attend and let them know if you can’t attend for any reason.

Tip: Set reminders for yourself to check your account or report any changes. Use a calendar or a reminder app if that helps reduce the stress of remembering deadlines.

Receiving Payments

Once your claim is processed, and if you are successful, you will start receiving Universal Credit payments. Payments are usually made monthly or twice a month, depending on your circumstances.

• Set up your bank account: Make sure you provide the right bank details so your payments are made directly to your account.

• Budget your money: Universal Credit is designed to cover your living costs, so you’ll need to budget your payments for rent, bills, food, etc.

Tip: If you struggle with managing finances, consider asking someone to help you set up a budget plan.

Extra Tips to Manage Anxiety During the Process:

• Take breaks: If you feel overwhelmed during any step, take a break. Do one part of the application at a time and return when you're ready.

• Ask for help: Don’t hesitate to ask for support from friends, family, or a local support organisation.

• Use clear, simple language: If you’re anxious about writing or explaining your situation, don’t worry about using formal language. It’s okay to keep things simple.

• Practice self-care: Before and after the process, engage in activities that help you feel calm (e.g., deep breathing, taking a walk, listening to music).

Final Thoughts

Taking it step by step will help make the process more manageable. By preparing ahead, asking for help, and using the tools available to you, you can apply for Universal Credit and hopefully feel a little bit less overwhelmed by the application process.