What You Need to Know

If you’ve received a Migration Notice letter from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), it means one or more of your existing benefits is ending, and you’ll need to move to Universal Credit (UC) to keep getting financial support. Here’s what that means, what to do, and how to get help.

Why You Received a Migration Notice Letter

The government is gradually replacing six older benefits with Universal Credit:

If you’re on any of these, and receive a letter, you’ll need to apply for Universal Credit by the deadline in the letter, or your payments will stop.

What You Need to Do

  1. Check the deadline in your letter
    • This is the last day you can apply to retain transitional support.
    • If you don’t apply by then, your benefits will end.
  2. Claim Universal Credit online
  3. Get support if needed
    • You can get free help from Citizens Advice’s “Help to Claim” service.

What You’ll Get on Universal Credit

Your Universal Credit will include:

  • A standard monthly allowance
  • Extra amounts if you:
    • Have children.
    • Pay rent.
    • Have a disability or health condition.
    • Are a carer. 

Transitional Protection (Top-Up Payments)

If Universal Credit would pay you less than your previous benefits, the DWP will automatically top it up, but only if you claim by the deadline in your letter.

You will not get this top-up if:

  • You claim after the deadline.
  • You apply before getting the letter.
  • You move in with a partner and claim as a couple.

What to Prepare for Your Application

To complete your UC claim, you’ll need information about:

  • Where you live and your rent.
  • Any income (e.g. wages, pensions).
  • Health conditions affecting work.
  • Childcare costs.
  • Savings and investments.

If You’re on ESA

If you’re on ESA and:

  • Already had a Work Capability Assessment.
  • Were in the support/work-related group.
    …and move to UC without a break, you won’t need to submit new medical evidence.

If You’re in Supported or Temporary Accommodation

Your Housing Benefit may still be paid separately by your local council. But other benefits will stop if you don’t claim Universal Credit.

What If You Miss the Deadline?

If you don’t claim in time:

  • Your benefits will end.
  • You can still apply later, but you won’t be entitled to transitional protection.

If you have a good reason (e.g. illness or bereavement), contact the DWP before the deadline to request more time:
Universal Credit Migration Notice Helpline: 0800 169 0328

Useful Tips

  • Use a benefits calculator to estimate what you could get.
  • You can ask for an advance payment while you wait for your first Universal Credit payment (usually takes about 5 weeks).
  • Report all changes to your circumstances (e.g. income, health, living situation) to avoid incorrect payments or penalties.

Need Help?

If you need support:

If you get a Migration Notice letter, act quickly. Apply by the deadline to protect your payments and access the full support you’re entitled to. Help is available, don’t try to go it alone if you’re unsure.

Don’t Forget

If you’re moving to Universal Credit, it’s also worth checking whether you’re eligible for help through the ECO4 or Great British Insulation Scheme. These programmes provide:

  • Free insulation or heating upgrades.
  • Lower household energy bills.
  • A warmer and healthier home.

They’re aimed at low-income households, including those receiving Universal Credit.

Check your eligibility now, it’s quick to do and could offer extra financial relief during your transition.