What is Universal Credit? Everything you need to know ...
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...about the UK’s biggest ever shake up of benefits
By Jasmin Gray
Universal Credit is a flagship benefits scheme rolling out across the country.
While the Government claims it will leave three million families better off each month, critics – including some Tory MPs – say the move is pushing some of the country’s most vulnerable people to the brink.
Either way, the change represents the largest shake up of benefits in the UK in decades.
Here’s everything you need to know about Universal Credit.
What is Universal Credit?
Universal Credit is a new means-tested payment being rolled out across the UK in what has been described as "the biggest-ever reform of benefits".
Intended to be simpler than the current system, the single, monthly payment replaces six key benefits and tax credits:
- Child tax credit
- Housing benefit
- Income support
- Income-based jobseeker’s allowance
- Income-related employment and support allowance
- Working tax credit.
Who can apply for Universal Credit?
A...
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