To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps she is taking to ensure those migrated from legacy benefits to Universal Credit do not incur a loss of income as a result.
Answered on
5 September 2022
The vast and on majority an average 55% of claimants will be £220 better off on Universal Credit. Where a claim for Universal Credit stops entitlement to a DWP income-related legacy benefit, a claimant will automatically receive a two-week run on of those benefits. Those entitled to Housing Benefit will also receive a two-week Transition to Universal Credit Housing Payment.
In addition, those claimants the Department moves from legacy benefits to Universal Credit through the managed migration process will be assessed for transitional protection at the point they move to Universal Credit. Transitional protection will be paid to eligible claimants who would see a lower entitlement on Universal Credit. The aim of this temporary payment is to maintain the same level of entitlement at the point of transition so that claimants will have time to adjust to the new benefit system.