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• How to start a Universal Credit claim

  Find out how to start a Universal Credit claim. Before you start you’ll need to check if you're eligible for Universal Credit.

• If your Universal Credit is reduced or stopped

  Find out why your Universal Credit payment might be reduced or stopped, and advice on what you can do about it. You'll be notified if your payment changes.

• Get a Universal Credit advance payment

  How to get an advance payment of Universal Credit if you don't have enough money to get by while you're waiting for your first Universal Credit payment.

• Before you apply for Universal Credit

  Information for before you apply for Universal Credit. Find out more about what Universal Credit is, check if you're eligible and how it's paid.

• Contact us about a Universal Credit application

  Get help making a new claim for Universal Credit, from the making the application through to getting your first correct payment.

• Going to your Universal Credit medical assessment

  If you're sick or disabled, find out how to prepare for the Universal Credit medical assessment and what the DWP’s decision means for you.

• Help with debt and rent arrears on Universal Credit

  You might be able to get financial help if you're on Universal Credit and are in debt, have rent arrears or are struggling with money. Check what help you can get.

• Check how Universal Credit is changing in 2026

  The amount of Universal Credit you can get will change in April 2026. Check what is changing because of the Universal Credit Bill and other benefit changes.