DWP Universal Credit Migration Notice for State Pensioners, Digi Mart USA News (United Kingdom): The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a warning to state pensioners who have received a letter about moving to Universal Credit. According to the publisher’s report, the department has revised its guidance for people who have reached State Pension age and received a Migration Notice.
Pensioners who receive such a letter instructing them to switch to Universal Credit are being told not to ignore it. The report says missing the deadline could result in benefit payments stopping altogether, and anyone who wishes to keep receiving financial assistance must submit a Universal Credit claim by the date specified in their letter.
The update is part of the government’s wider welfare reform programme, which is gradually replacing legacy benefits with Universal Credit. Tax Credits, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance and Income Support have already been abolished, and Housing Benefit is being withdrawn for most new claims.
The guidance applies across England, Scotland and Wales, while separate arrangements are in place for Northern Ireland. For most people issued with a Migration Notice, Housing Benefit will end even if they choose not to move to Universal Credit.
Individuals in supported or temporary accommodation are an exception, as their Housing Benefit can continue to be administered by their local authority.
People whose Housing Benefit stops may be able to reclaim it within three months if they did not apply for Universal Credit, were found ineligible despite applying before the deadline, or have since stopped receiving Universal Credit. The DWP says most people moving to Universal Credit will receive the same amount as from their previous benefits, or more, supported by a system known as transitional protection.
