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Universal credit: Who can claim Universal credit

Universal Credit has now rolled out across the UK and is available for most brand new claimants.

This part of the website explains in detail who can currently claim UC and the impact of UC on existing tax credit claimants.

Roll-out timetable (GB)
For information purposes, this page explains how UC was rolled out in Great Britain between 2013 and December 2018.

Current eligibility to claim
This page explains who is currently eligible to claim UC.

Tax credits and UC
This section brings together information about the impact of UC availability on claims for tax credits. 

Pensioners
This section explains how the introduction of UC applies to those who have reached state pension credit age including mixed aged couples. 

Northern Ireland
This page looks at how UC rolled out in NI and the differences between GB and NI in respect of UC, including additional support available.

Last reviewed/updated 23 May 2022

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