The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) have begun the process of moving people from old legacy benefits to Universal credit. This process is known as managed migration.
You can learn more about the process of managed migration from Universal Credit if you receive a Migration Notice letter on GOV.UK.
Managed migration will happen in stages. It may not affect you immediately but for some people in Bracknell, the change will happen from December 2023.
The DWP will contact you directly and invite you to claim Universal Credit. You will not be moved over automatically so you must apply. Your benefits will stop if you do not apply for Universal Credit by the deadline date stated in your migration notice letter.
You can learn more about the move to Universal Credit from Completing the move to Universal Credit on GOV.UK.
Transitional protection
For many on Universal Credit, their income will be the same as they received from their other benefits. If it is lower, 'transitional protection' may top it up. Transitional protection only applies if your move is due to managed migration.
You will not get this protection if you choose to move to Universal Credit before you receive your migration notice.
For many people, Universal Credit may mean they receive more benefits. If you fall into either of the categories below, this could apply to you.
If you are:
- in employment
- claim Housing Benefit and have non-dependents in employment who live at home
We recommend you use one of the approved benefits calculators on GOV.UK before making the move. Before the move, make sure you are claiming everything you are entitled to. If you would be worse off, you will be entitled to transitional support under the new scheme.
Help with making an application for Universal Credit
You can get help with applying for Universal Credit from the Citizens Advice Bureau.
Remember: Your benefits will stop if you do not apply for Universal Credit by the deadline date stated in your migration notice letter.