Answers · Question
How do I claim Universal Credit?
Claim online at GOV.UK. You need identity, a bank account, and the household facts: age, partner, children, rent, pay and savings. The first payment is usually about five weeks after the claim. An advance is a loan, taken off later payments.
- A couple claims jointly. One person starts it and the other confirms.
- If you cannot claim online, the GOV.UK page says how to claim by phone.
Before you start
Have a tenancy and the rent if you want help with housing. The housing element is capped. It is not the full rent by default.
Have payslips if you work. Have immigration status if you are not a British or Irish citizen. A share code is the usual proof.
Indicative only. Not advice. Confirm it on the official page before you rely on it.