ESA and housing benefit claimants get more time to move to universal credit

The timetable for moving people off employment and support allowance (ESA) or housing benefit and on to universal credit is being extended.

More than 1.9m people who were previously on so-called ‘legacy’ benefits have already been moved on to universal credit - a single payment that combines several types of financial support.

If you receive a letter from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) telling you about the change, you’ll have three months to switch.

But for people receiving income-related ESA or certain types of housing benefit, you might be able to get extra time if you need it.

This is so any people who are hard to reach, or those with complex needs or health conditions, can continue to be supported to make the move.

Extra support is available

If this applies to you, you’ll have access to support including:

• a dedicated DWP helpline
• tailored help for anyone who hasn’t yet engaged with the DWP
• home visits if needed

The government hopes this will ensure everyone can move over safely and continue getting the help they’re entitled to.

What does this mean for me?

The most important thing to know is that there isn’t one fixed deadline for everyone.

You’ll be sent a letter called a migration notice which will tell you what to do next.

If you’re not able to move in time, you can ask for an extension before the deadline named in the letter.

You can ask for an extension more than once, although requests can be refused.

The government is aiming to have completed the closure of ESA and housing benefit by the end of the summer.

“Vulnerable customers have been at the forefront of this campaign,” said social security and disability minister Sir Stephen Timms.

“In their interests, we are extending the deadline for income-related ESA claimants to move over.

“This government is committed to updating the welfare system so that it promotes opportunity, rather than stifling it.”

Changes don’t apply if you’re in temporary or supported accommodation

If you live in temporary or supported accommodation, you’ll continue getting working age housing benefit.

Find out what other benefits you can claim

If you're struggling to make ends meet, it’s also worth making sure you’re not missing out on other support you might be eligible for.

We can check you’re claiming everything you’re entitled to. 

So get in touch or try our benefits calculator.