DWP update as Universal Credit claimants could be ‘better off’

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a new update for people claiming Universal Credit.

The new rules, which came into effect on Monday, mean people on the benefit who currently work less than 18 hours a week will have to find extra work. The changes are part of the Conservative government’s sweeping changes to the welfare system, with ministers raising the administrative earnings threshold from the equivalent of 15 hours to 18 hours on the National Living Wage for an individual claimant.

In a post on X on Monday, the DWP said: “With #UniversalCredit, work pays, meaning the more hours you work, the better off you can be. Even if you work more than 16 hours.

READ MORE: Martin Lewis says no to anyone with a private or company pension

READ MORE: The 50p coin is selling for nearly £150 after a bidding war on eBay

“From today, more people working on #UniversalCredit will get extra help to top up their pay.”

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: “Welfare should always be a safety net, not a lifestyle choice, which is why we’re ushering in a new era of welfare reforms to help more people progress from benefits and to engage.

“Today’s changes will help more people on Universal Credit move into well-paid jobs and progress towards financial independence – which is better for them and the economy.”

Receive newsletters with the latest news, sport and updates from the Liverpool ECHO by signing up here