Universal Credit claimants across Gedling borough are being reminded a £20 uplift in weekly payments, which was part of the UK Government’s Covid support, is due to end in October.
Over the coming weeks, people claiming Universal Credit will receive notifications about a cut to their benefits this autumn.
Below is a quick guide what is changing and when they will happen…
When will the cut happen?
As it stands, the government is set to slash benefits by £20 a week – equivalent to £1,040 a year – from October 6.
The exact date people will see the cut kick in will depend on the day they get their Universal Credit payment. For many, this means September will be the last month they see their benefits paid at existing levels.
How much could people lose?
While every Universal Credit claim will drop by around £85 a month, the proportion of income claimants will lose will vary depending on their circumstances. Single people under 25 are set to be hit by the biggest drop.
Monthly standard allowances will drop:
By a quarter for single claimants under 25, from £344 to £257.33
By a fifth for single claimants over 25, from £411.51 to £324.84
By 17% for joint claimants under 25, from £490.60 to £403.93
By 14% for joint claimants over 25, from £596.58 to £509.91
What support is available if I’m worried about my income?
A benefits check will help you verify you’re getting all the support you’re entitled to. You can use an online calculator as a starting point.
You can also contact Gedling Borough Council to see if there is any extra help available in times of hardship.
Your local Citizens advice will also be able to offer support if you are struggling with referrals for food bank vouchers, free school meals and more.
It’s not a cut in benefit, it’s the top up gift stopping,
Everyone knew this was a temporary situation and IS NOT A Cut. If claimants are that concerned, then there are plenty of jobs out there where they can actually EARN some money. Farmers are actually crying out for people to help get crops in.
Alternatively change your mobile phone contract to a cheaper one and leave the pub out a couple of times a week.