Universal Credit

Universal Credit (UC) was introduced in April 2013 and represents the Government's latest, means-tested benefit, administered by the DWP, which provides a single monthly payment for people of "working age" (up to aged 66) who are either unemployed, sick, disabled, caring for children or adults or working part or full-time. UC, by September 2024, should fully replace the existing means-tested benefits (e.g Income Support, JSA (IB), ESA (IB) and tax credits) that your tenants might be currently receiving. Landlords are particularly interested in the "Housing Costs Element" (HCE) of the benefit, which replaces Housing Benefit (HB) and Local Housing Allowance (LHA). Since its introduction, DWP has struggled, particularly with the HCE part of the benefit, causing substantial rent arrears to accrue; putting tenancies in jeopardy; and tenants being evicted, sometimes unnecessarily in the process. Landlords, especially those who adopt a hands-on approach, or use specialist staff (Welfare Rights, Financial Inclusion, can mitigate much of the potential losses they would otherwise experience. As recognised experts in this field, we can help by working alongside you and your staff to ensure you're better informed and capable of pursuing matters on your tenant's behalf with DWP and/or First-tier Tribunals. Where necessary, we can act as your represntative, in disputes that can't be resolved through mediation.