Publication date: 26.03.2025
My name is Inna Fedorova, I am a lawyer from Sunderland, UK. My main area of expertise is legalization and citizenship. As an experienced lawyer, I provide qualified assistance in applying for social security benefits and residence permits in the UK, guaranteeing efficiency, effectiveness and maximum results at every stage of the process.
Initial Data. The client is a single mother who lost her job and faced financial difficulties.
Solution. In the UK, there is a social benefits system called Universal Credit. It was decided to apply for it.
Legal Assistance. Inna assisted the client in submitting an online application for Universal Credit, explaining the eligibility requirements and necessary documents. She scheduled an interview at the Jobcentre and provided advice on budget management.
Result. A few weeks later, the client started receiving payments, which eased her financial stress. Later, she found a part-time job while continuing to receive support, helping her regain financial stability.
Applying for Universal Credit in the UK
Applying for Universal Credit (UC) in the UK is the process of submitting an online application for government benefits designed for low-income individuals, the unemployed, or those unable to work.
Checking Eligibility for Universal Credit in the UK
Before applying, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria:
- You reside in the UK.
- You are 18 or older (16 in some cases).
- You have a low income or are unemployed.
- Your savings are below £16,000.
Required Documents for Universal Credit in the UK
Before applying, prepare the following:
- Passport or biometric residence permit.
- National Insurance Number (NIN).
- Information about your income, savings, and expenses.
- Housing details (rent, utility bills).
- Bank account details.
- Family member information (if applying for the whole family).
The application is submitted through the government website. You need to create a UC account, enter personal details, and verify your identity.
After submitting the application, you will be scheduled for an interview at Jobcentre Plus, where your situation will be discussed, and a Claimant Commitment will be created (if applicable).
Waiting for a Decision and First Universal Credit Payments in the UK
- Application processing takes up to 5 weeks.
- Payments are made monthly.
- An advance payment can be requested if urgent financial assistance is needed.
Universal Credit (UC) for Single Mothers in the UK
Single mothers are eligible for additional payments and benefits under Universal Credit. You can apply if:
- You are the sole parent of a child (under 16 or under 20 if in full-time education).
- You have a low income or are unemployed.
- Your savings are below £16,000.
Additional benefits may include Child Benefit and housing payment discounts.
Included Payments
Universal Credit consists of a standard allowance plus child-related payments:
Standard Allowance (as of 2024):
£292.11 per month if under 25.
£368.74 per month if 25 or older.
Additional Child Payments:
£315.00 for the first child (born before April 6, 2017).
£269.58 for the first child (born after April 6, 2017).
£269.58 per month for each additional child.
Housing Support. If renting, Universal Credit may cover part or all of the rent.
Childcare Support. Up to 85% of childcare costs may be covered (up to £1,014.63 per month per child).
If the child is under 1 year old, the mother is not required to work. If the child is 1-2 years old, the mother must participate in work preparation (e.g., resume writing, training). If the child is 3-4 years old, the mother must actively seek work (around 16 hours per week). If the child is 5 or older, standard job search rules apply (up to 35 hours per week, considering school hours).
The UK provides social support for those in need. Legal consultant Inna Fedorova offers guidance on claiming benefits, assists with applications, and ensures proper documentation. Seeking her help can prevent mistakes, save time, and make the process less stressful.
