The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued an urgent warning to hundreds of thousands of benefit claimants as the government presses forward with plans to phase out the benefits.
Legacy benefits – including Tax Credits, Housing Benefit, Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance and Income-Related Employment and Support Allowance – are being phased out to bring government financial support into one place.
The first legacy benefit to be discontinued is Tax Credits, which will stop for good in April this year.
Claimants will be moved over through the DWP’s Managed Migration programme.
During this process, households still receiving legacy benefits are being sent “migration notices” in the post informing them of the change.
It is important for claimants to act once they get the letter as failing to submit a Universal Credit claim within three months will result in their existing benefits being stopped.
People do not need to take action until they receive their migration notice letter from the Department from Work and Pensions.
Other benefits, such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP), will stay the same. Housing Benefit will be ending unless you’re in supported or temporary accommodation
If you live in supported or temporary accommodation, your Housing Benefit will continue to be paid by your local council.
If you decide not to claim Universal Credit, you’ll continue to get Housing Benefit. However, your other benefits or tax credits will end.
Anyone who needs support is encouraged to contact DWP for a smooth transition before their deadline. More information can be found at: Move to Universal Credit if you get a Migration Notice letter – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Sir Stephen Timms, minister for Social Security and Disability, said: “Having three months to make a move may feel like a long time but life can often distract you elsewhere.
“For the best chance to secure your benefit entitlement don’t delay with responding to your migration notice.
“We are committed to ensuring a smooth transition and customers will have the full support of DWP staff to help manage this change.”
