The Universal Credit system was rolled out by the government, replacing a number of other benefits. This includes the payments Child Tax Credit, Housing Benefit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), and Working Tax Credit. The process for claiming Universal Credit begins by creating an account online, and then submitting a claim. There will then be a one-month assessment period, with the payment due around seven days after that period ends.
With Universal Credit you usually get a work coach to help you if you are preparing for work, moving into work or looking to increase your earnings
DWP website
During the assessment, an applicant must attend an interview at Jobcentre plus with their work coach.
It is here that the claimant will sign an agreement as to what they need to do in order to be paid Universal Credit.
This is known as the Claimant Commitment, and it is tailored to one’s personal circumstances.
It may include preparing or looking for work - or for those already working, it may mean increasing their earnings.
Universal Credit guidance on the Department for Work and Pensions website states: “It will take into account things like caring responsibilities, or whether you are disabled or have a health
