The UK government has introduced a £1,739 Extra Universal Credit payment to help low-income families and individuals manage the rising cost of living. This one-time payment is part of a larger financial support package aimed at easing the burden on those struggling with essential expenses like food and energy bills.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the £1,739 payment, including who is eligible, when it will be paid, and how to claim it.
What Is the £1,739 Extra Universal Credit Payment?
The £1,739 Extra Universal Credit payment is a one-time financial support measure that was introduced to help individuals and families who are already receiving Universal Credit (UC). Universal Credit is a means-tested benefit provided by the UK government to assist people with their living costs. It combines several benefits into a single monthly payment.
This extra payment is part of a £15 billion cost-of-living support package announced by the government to help with rising costs, especially energy bills. The £1,739 payment is designed to give a temporary financial boost to those who are most affected by these challenges.
Who Is Eligible for the £1,739 Payment?
To qualify for the £1,739 Extra Universal Credit payment, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must be 18 years old or older.
- You must be living in the UK. Special rules apply to non-British citizens.
- You must be under the State Pension Age.
- You need to have an active Universal Credit claim as of a specific date. This means you should be receiving Universal Credit when the payment is issued.
Eligibility for Universal Credit is based on your household income, including wages, pensions, and savings. Whether you’re unemployed, working part-time, or earning a low income, you may still qualify for UC and, consequently, the £1,739 extra payment.
When Will the £1,739 Extra Universal Credit Payment Be Made?
The exact payment dates for the £1,739 Extra Universal Credit payment have not yet been confirmed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). However, it is expected to be distributed sometime between July and September 2024.
If you are an eligible UC claimant, you do not need to take any additional steps to receive this payment. It will be automatically deposited into your UC account once the payment dates are finalized. To stay updated, it’s essential to regularly check the official DWP portal.
What Can the Extra Universal Credit Payment Be Used For?
The £1,739 payment is meant to provide relief during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. The extra money can be used to cover essential expenses like:
- Rising energy bills
- Food and groceries
- Other everyday necessities
This one-off payment gives people extra financial resources, helping them prioritize their spending and better manage their budgets during these difficult times. By providing a bit of breathing room, it also helps prevent low-income families from falling into deeper financial trouble.
The £1,739 Extra Universal Credit Payment is a much-needed lifeline for many people struggling with the cost of living. If you’re an existing Universal Credit claimant, keep an eye on the official DWP portal for updates on when this payment will be made.
Remember, this support is temporary, so exploring other government assistance programs might be a good idea. With the right financial resources and careful planning, you can better manage your budget and get through these tough economic times.
What is the £1,739 Extra Universal Credit payment?
It’s a one-time payment introduced by the UK government to help low-income individuals and families cope with the rising cost of living.
Who qualifies for this payment?
You must be an existing Universal Credit claimant, aged 18 or older, living in the UK, and under State Pension Age.
When will the payment be made?
The payment is expected to be made between July and September 2024, though exact dates are yet to be confirmed by the DWP.
Do I need to apply for this payment?
No, the payment will be made automatically if you are eligible.
What can I use the payment for?
The payment can be used to help cover essential costs like energy bills, food, and other living expenses.
