Universal Credit to replace working-age benefits

Universal Credit, the new single payment for people who are looking for work or on a low income, will be rolled out throughout 2013 and will replace benefits such as:

Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, the unemployment benefit paid by the government to people who are unemployed and seeking work.

Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) - for the ill or disabled, ESA offers financial support if you’re unable to work or personalised help so that you can work if you’re able to.

Income Support - for people with no income or a low income who are working less than 16 hours a week and haven’t signed on as unemployed.

Child Tax Credit - can be claimed for each child you’re responsible for if they’re under 16 or under 20 and in approved education or training.

Working Tax Credits - you could qualify if you’re aged 16 or over, work a certain number of hours a week, you get paid for the work you do (or expect to) but your income is below a certain level.

Housing Benefit - to help you pay your rent if you’re on a low income.

Read: What is Universal Credit?