Universal Credit concerns as claimants 'caught in 5 week trap' with no payments

An MP has voiced concerns that some Universal Credit claimants are "caught in a trap" waiting weeks to get their payment.

MPs were in the Commons this week debating welfare spending, after a bill was approved by MPs in recent days bringing in key changes to Universal Credit.

The DWP reforms will mean the standard allowance that claimant will receive will go up, increasing at least in line with inflation each year from 2026/27 to 2029/30. But there will be cuts to some of the extra amounts you can get if you have a health condition or disability that affects your ability to work.

Liberal Democrat MP Jamie Stone stood up to mention an issue that is affecting people in his constituency who are migrating to Universal Credit.

This is when a person on one of the six older benefits, also known as legacy benefits, is moved over to Universal Credit, which is replacing these older benefits.

You have to apply for the new benefit or your payments will stop. Speaking of claimants who are moving over, Mr Stone said: "The trouble is that they have to wait five weeks until they get their first cash.

"How will they make ends meet? What about the direct debits? I worry about that." He urged ministers to look at the situation as "people are really caught in a trap".

Advice on the Government website about moving over to Universal Credit explains: "Your claim starts on the day you submit it in your account, however it usually takes around five weeks to get your first payment."

If you are struggling to get by during the five-week wait, there is the option to apply for an advance Universal Credit payment through your account.

This is an interest-free loan from the DWP, and you will have to pay back the amount in instalments, out of your future Universal Credit payments. The DWP has been asked for comment about the matter.

These are the current rates for the monthly Universal Credit standard allowance:

• If you’re single and under 25 - £316.98
• If you’re single and 25 or over - £400.14
• If you live with your partner and you’re both under 25 - £497.55 (for you both)
• If you live with your partner and either of you are 25 or over - £628.10 (for you both).