From 1st December 2022, renting has changed in Wales. Our website’s advice pages on renting are up to date with the new law.
Please bear with us while we update the rest of our advice pages.
 

Universal Credit

Universal Credit (UC) is a monthly payment for people of working age, designed to top up income to a minimum level.

UC has replaced several older benefits – including housing benefit, income support and income based jobseeker’s allowance.

Who can claim Universal Credit?

Find out if you can claim UC.

How do I apply for UC?

You normally have to make your claim for UC online. Find out more here.

Can I claim UC if I am homeless?

Just because you are homeless does not mean that you cannot claim UC. Have a look at our advice here.

How much UC will I get?

The amount you get depends on your income and family circumstances. Find out more about how UC is calculated here.

How long will it take to get UC?

It will take at least 5 weeks before your get your first payment. Find out what you can do if you haven’t got enough money in the meantime here.

Can I claim for help paying my rent?

Your UC payment can include help towards paying your rent. Find out more about how much help you can get here.

Can I claim for help paying my mortgage?

Your UC payment can include a payment to help you pay your mortgage. Find out more about the help you can get here.

Deductions from UC

Find out what deductions can be made from your UC, for example, to cover rent arrears.

Challenging UC decisions

If you don’t agree with a decision made about your UC claim you might be able to challenge it. Find out how here.

What other help can I get if I am on UC?

If you are on UC you might qualify for other help with your money. Find out what you can get here.

We are sorry that we cannot provide this information in Welsh, however if you would like to speak to an adviser in Welsh please contact 08000 495 495.

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This page was last updated on: May 9, 2023

Shelter Cymru acknowledges the support of Shelter in allowing us to adapt their content. The information contained on this site is updated and maintained by Shelter Cymru and only gives general guidance on the law in Wales. It should not be regarded or relied upon as a complete or authoritative statement of the law.