Universal Credit
In short
Universal Credit is a monthly payment to help with your living costs if you are on a low income, out of work or cannot work. It is replacing older benefits such as Housing Benefit and income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance.
What you could get
| Who it is for | Amount | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Standard allowance — single, under 25 | £338.58 a month | Official page (opens in a new tab) |
| Standard allowance — single, 25 or over | £424.90 a month | Official page (opens in a new tab) |
| Standard allowance — couple, both under 25 | £528.34 a month | Official page (opens in a new tab) |
| Standard allowance — couple, one 25 or over | £666.97 a month | Official page (opens in a new tab) |
| Child element — first child | £303.94 a month | Official page (opens in a new tab) |
| Child element — additional child | £303.94 a month | Official page (opens in a new tab) |
Last checked 18 September 2026
Official guidance
Apply on the official site
This link goes to the organisation that runs the scheme. We are not affiliated with them and we never ask for your details.
Read the official guidance (opens in a new tab) www.gov.ukRelated pages
Our guides on Universal Credit
- How to claim Universal Credit
- How self-employment affects Universal Credit
- Universal Credit housing costs and rent help
- Extra financial help if you claim Universal Credit
- How to apply for Universal Credit
- How Universal Credit works when you are working
Related benefits
- Attendance Allowance Department for Work and Pensions
- Carer's Allowance Department for Work and Pensions
- Disability Living Allowance for children Department for Work and Pensions
- Housing Benefit Department for Work and Pensions
- New Style Employment and Support Allowance Department for Work and Pensions
- New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance Department for Work and Pensions
- Pension Credit Department for Work and Pensions
- Personal Independence Payment Department for Work and Pensions
Calculators
If this is your situation
- How we check this page
- Every amount comes from a published official source that we store and re-check. If a figure changes at the source, this page is flagged for review.
- Not advice
- This is general information, not financial or legal advice. Your own entitlement depends on your circumstances.