Citizens Advice Sherwood and Newark is helping people in Newark to manage Universal Credit, which went into full service there in May 2018, and they continue to help those in Ollerton and surrounding areas get ready for Universal Credit, which rolls out in there in September 2018.
Universal Credit is a new benefit which helps people on a low income or not in work meet their living costs. It combines six benefits, including Housing Benefit and Working Tax Credit, into a single monthly payment.
By 2022, Universal Credit is expected to affect 21,000 households across Newark and Sherwood. To help people prepare for Universal Credit, Citizens Advice Sherwood and Newark is highlighting how it differs to previous benefits.
Three key changes the charity wants people to be aware of are:
- Universal Credit payments are made in arrears once a month, rather than every week. The date you get paid will depend on when you make your claim.
- Payments will go straight into your bank account. This means you may need to set up standing orders for expenses, like rent, if it was paid directly to your landlord under the old benefits system.
- New Universal Credit applications, and any change in your circumstances, need to be made online.
Lesley Barrick, Advice Service Manager of Citizens Advice Sherwood and Newark, said: “Universal Credit is the biggest-ever change to the benefit system, so it’s important people get support while they get used to it. We can help at every stage of the process — from guiding someone through the online application form, to offering budgeting advice and helping people best manage their monthly payment.”
Citizens Advice Sherwood & Newark
5 Forest Court, New Ollerton NG22 9PL
Monday and Wednesday:
9.30am to 2.30pm
Adviceline: 0844 411 1444
(Mon to Fri 10.00am to 4.00pm)
www.adviceguide.org.uk