Get help to claim Universal Credit
If you need help to apply for Universal Credit, there are places that you can go to, whether it's to use a computer, or to get help with your application.
Changes from tax credits to Universal Credit
If you live in County Durham and receive Working Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit, you will receive a Managed Migration Notice from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) from July 2023 onwards. The letter will tell you that your Tax Credits will end and that you need to claim Universal Credit.
You can carry on receiving Tax Credits as normal (including your annual renewal) until you receive this letter. The letter will give a deadline date giving you at least 3 months - you are not automatically transferred onto Universal Credit. If you need a time extension because of your personal circumstances or to arrange some advice, you can phone the telephone number on the letter to request more time.
If the amount of Universal Credit would be less than your Tax Credits you can get a top-up which means you are not worse off at the point of transfer.
If you get Tax Credits and have savings over £16,000, you should still apply for Universal Credit if you get a Managed Migration Notice because your savings over £16,000 will be ignored for 12 months.
If you need further advice about a Universal Credit Managed Migration Notice contact Welfare Rights 03000 268968 or for help making a claim contact Citizens Advice Help to Claim 0800 144 8444.
Get help to claim Universal Credit
There are no paper copies of the form to claim Universal Credit - so you need access to the internet (either on a computer, tablet or phone) to make your claim.
Add your postcode into the box below to see where help is available near you. Alternatively you can contact Citizens Advice: help applying for Universal Credit.
