UC is a single payment that is paid monthly into your bank account. You may have to wait for up to 5 weeks for your first payment.
How you will be paid
To receive UC and other benefits, you’ll need to have a bank or building society account or an account with an alternative provider like a credit union. The account must be in your name and NOT a savings account.
Your Universal Credit payment is normally paid monthly directly into your bank account.
You may have to wait for up to 5 weeks for your first payment.
You may be able to get a Universal Credit advance if you are unable to manage during this period.
Full details of how and when your UC will be paid are available from GOV.UK.
Further information can be found at the following links:
Alternative Payment Arrangements
If you are struggling with monthly payments or having trouble managing your money you can request to be paid more frequently e.g. twice a month.
Information on how to request an alternative payment arrangement is available from entitledto.
Managing your money
To make sure you're ready for the introduction of Universal Credit, follow these links to MoneyHelper:
- Choosing a bank account for your Universal Credit payment
- How to budget for a monthly benefit payment
- Managing your rent payments on Universal Credit
Basic Bank Accounts
The Government has come to a new agreement with the banking industry which will mean that basic bank accounts are ‘fee-free’ which should help to improve financial inclusion and increase access to banking services.
This is particularly important for those who are likely to claim Universal Credit in the future.
Universal Credit needs to be paid into a transactional bank account and claimants will need to be able to make payments for rent and other bills. Removing charges for failed direct debits or standing orders should reduce the risks associated with using these payment methods.
Full details of the agreement are available at GOV.UK.
A Guide to choosing a bank account for your benefit payments, can be found at AdviserBook.
More information on Basic Bank Accounts can be found at at MAG - Basic Bank Accouts.
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