Overview

• The number of Universal Credit claimants rose to 7.5 million in January 2025, up from 6.4 million the previous year.
• Legacy benefits, including Working Tax Credit and Housing Benefit, are being phased out as part of the Managed Migration process.
• Universal Credit is available to individuals out of work, in part-time or self-employment, and those with health conditions or disabilities.
• Eligibility requires claimants to live in the UK, be under State Pension age, and have savings of £16,000 or less.
• Special provisions exist for vulnerable groups, including younger claimants with disabilities, caregivers, and members of the armed forces stationed abroad.