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DWP Sets March 31 End Date for Income Support and Income-Based JSA

More than 1.8 million claimants have been told to apply for Universal Credit by set deadlines to avoid payments stopping.

Overview

  • The DWP reports the managed migration is nearing completion, with most affected people expected to have moved by the end of March 2026.
  • Income Support and income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance will close on March 31, 2026 as transfers complete.
  • Claimants who receive a Migration Notice must submit a Universal Credit claim by the date in the letter or legacy payments can be halted.
  • Ministers approved a short, targeted extension for some income-related ESA cases to allow extra help with complex transitions.
  • Universal Credit replaces six legacy benefits, and the DWP is contacting people directly with guidance and application support.