£578.82 Universal Credit Increase in 2024 – Are You Getting It? If you’re in the UK and struggling with costs you might be due a Universal Credit boost.
In April 2024 the government upped several Universal Credit Increase rates — including the standard rate for couples where at least one partner is 25 or over which went from £578.82 to £617.60 a month .
This little increase can make a big difference to households struggling with everyday costs like rent, food and bills.
Whether you’re already on Universal Credit or thinking of applying here’s everything you need to know.
What Is Universal Credit?
Universal Credit is a monthly benefit for people who are out of work or on a low income. It replaced six older benefits:
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Income Support
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Housing Benefit
The idea was to simplify the system and make it easier for people to get the support they need — whether they’re working part-time, self-employed or not working at all.
What Changed in April 2024?
To help more people with the cost of living the UK government increased several Universal Credit rates.
One of the biggest changes was for couples where at least one person is 25 or over.
| Before (Pre-April 2024) | After (Post-April 2024) |
|---|---|
| £578.82/month | £617.60/month |
That’s an extra £38.78 per month — enough to cover a few weeks of groceries or help with utility bills.
And if you were already claiming, you shouldn’t have had to do anything — the change should have been applied automatically based on your circumstances.
Who Qualifies for the Universal Credit Increased Payment?
Universal Credit is open to anyone who meets the basic criteria, regardless of whether you’re employed or not.
Here’s what you need to qualify:
Age
You must be 18 or older . In some cases, 16–17-year-olds may be eligible depending on their situation.
Residency
You must live in the UK and meet certain residency rules. live in the UK.
Savings
Your total savings must be below £16,000 — this includes money in bank accounts, investments or property you own.
Income
You must either be on a low income or out of work.
Additional Circumstances
You may get more if you:
- Have children or dependents
- Care for someone full-time
- Live with a disability or long-term health condition
- Pay for housing or childcare
How to Apply for Universal Credit in 2025
Applying is simple and done entirely online through the government portal.
Here’s how to do it step-by-step:
Step 1: Check If You Qualify
Use the official Universal Credit eligibility tool or speak with a local Jobcentre Plus advisor to confirm.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
You’ll need:
- ID (passport or driving licence)
- Details of any income
- Housing costs (rent or mortgage)
- Childcare expenses
- Bank account information
- Proof of savings
Step 3: Create an Online Account
Go to the gov.uk website , create a Universal Credit account and start your application within 28 days.
Step 4: Verify Your Identity
You’ll be asked to verify yourself online — sometimes in person if needed.
Step 5: Attend a Work Coach Interview
Most new claimants will need to attend a meeting to discuss their situation and sign a Claimant Commitment .
Step 6: Wait for Approval
Payments usually start around five weeks after you’ve submitted your claim . If you need help sooner, you can ask for an advance payment .
Extra Help You May Be Entitled To
Universal Credit isn’t just one flat rate — it can include extra support based on your circumstances.
Some common extras include:
Children and Dependents
You can get extra payments for each child you care for — even more if your child has a disability.
Housing Costs
Help with rent or mortgage interest (if you own your home).
Disability Support
Extra money if you or your partner have a long-term health condition or disability.
Childcare
Up to 85% of your childcare costs can be reimbursed if you’re working or starting work.
These are added on top of your Universal Credit amount.
What If Your Circumstances Change?
You must tell us as soon as possible if anything major changes.
Examples include:
- Starting or losing a job
- Moving house
- Having a baby
- Someone moving in or out of your home
- Developing a health condition
Not telling us can result in overpayments, underpayments or penalties.
FAQs For Universal Credit Increase
When did the Universal Credit increase happen?
The new rates started April 2024 and should be in your payment if you’re eligible.
Do I need to reapply to get the higher rate?
No — if you were already on Universal Credit, the increase should have been applied automatically.
Can I get Universal Credit if I’m working?
Yes — Universal Credit is for low income earners, including part-time and full-time workers.
How is my payment calculated?
Based on your household income, savings, family size and specific needs like children or disabilities.
Where can I get help applying?
Organisations like Citizens Advice offer free help through their “Help to Claim” service.