Universal Credit is a benefit you can claim if you’re on a low income or unemployed. 

There’s no set level of income where you stop being eligible for Universal Credit - it depends on your situation.

But what if, for example, you live with other people such as your parents?

Well, with help from citizensadvice.com, we can tell you all you need to know.

Who can get Universal Credit?

To get Universal Credit you must:

  • In most cases, you have to be 18 years old or over to claim Universal Credit. You cannot claim Universal Credit if you have reached State Pension age.
  • live in the UK - there are extra rules if you’re not a British citizen

You must usually have less than £16,000 in savings or other investments - called ‘capital’. Capital doesn’t include your pension pot or the home you live in.

If you live with a partner, their income and capital will be taken into account.

If you have more than £16,000 in capital, you might still be able to get Universal Credit for up to a year. This applies if you get tax credits and you’ve had a letter from the DWP telling you to move to Universal Credit by a certain date.

Recommended reading:

DWP Universal Credit and benefit payment change warning

DWP Universal Credit warning as 184,000 benefits stopped

DWP Universal Credit deductions of £756 a year warning

Can you claim Universal Credit if you live with other people or your parents?

You can get Universal Credit if you’re living with other people but it might affect how much you get. For example, living with parents might mean you get less help with housing costs.

You can get Universal Credit if you’re self-employed - the application process is the same.

Whether you’ll be able to get Universal Credit depends on your situation.