Thousands of Universal Credit claimants are poised to see their payments increase this month, following a boost announced by Chancellor Jeremy Hunt in the autumn of 2023. The increase, which was set in motion from April 1, will provide relief for millions of benefit recipients, including those on Universal Credit, with payments rising by 6.7 per cent.
In April, millions of households across the country experienced a significant rise in their benefits, as the Chancellor’s pledge to align payment increases with September’s inflation figures came to fruition. The move was part of ongoing efforts to address the economic challenges faced by individuals and families, particularly amid rising living costs.
However, not all Universal Credit recipients immediately benefited from the April increase. Due to the system’s assessment period structure, some claimants will only see the rise reflected in their payments starting from June.
According to charity Turn2Us, which offers support and guidance on benefits, the timing of the increase depends on individuals’ assessment periods. For those whose assessment period began before April 8, the new rates will not take effect until their next assessment period commencing after that date.
For example, if an assessment period starts on March 26 and ends on April 25, the new rates won’t be applied until the subsequent assessment period starting on April 26. Consequently, payments reflecting the increased rates will be disbursed in June, a week after the end of the assessment period.
This delay underscores the intricacies of the Universal Credit system and highlights the importance of understanding how assessment periods impact payment timelines for claimants. As households navigate these changes, organizations like Turn2Us provide valuable information to help individuals navigate the complexities of benefit payments and plan their finances accordingly.
The increase in Universal Credit payments serves as a vital lifeline for many individuals and families, offering much-needed support in the face of economic uncertainty. As the effects of inflation and rising living costs continue to impact households across the UK, the timely implementation of these payment increases provides essential relief to those relying on welfare support.
