Universal Credit

Universal Credit is the new benefit for people of working age who are looking for work or on a low income. Blaenau Gwent will be a Universal Credit Full Service Area from the 18th July 2018. It will combine six benefits into one single monthly payment.

It replaces:

  • Working Tax Credit
  • Child Tax Credit
  • Housing Benefit
  • Income Support
  • Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
  • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance

What is not included in Universal Credit

Universal Credit won't replace these benefits:

  • Contributory Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)
  • Contributory Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
  • Disability Living Allowance / Personal Independence Payments (DLA/PIP)
  • Attendance Allowance
  • Child Benefit
  • Carer's Allowance
  • Industrial Injuries Benefit
  • Local Welfare Provision
  • Pension Credit
  • State Retirement Pension 

Paying your Rent

Under Universal Credit Blaenau Gwent Council will no longer pay your landlord. It will be your responsibility to make sure your rent is paid on time and in full. The Housing element of your Universal Credit payments will need to be paid to your landlord by you.

If you think this will be difficult in your circumstance please contact your work coach, or call the hotline on 0800 3289344.

Council Tax Reduction & Free School Meals

Tell Blaenau Gwent Council (Benefits Section) that you have made a claim for Universal Credit and make a SEPARATE claim for Council Tax Reduction & Free School Meals if appropriate.

If you have difficulty paying your Council Tax please contact the Benefits Section on 01495 311556.

Make a claim

For further information on criteria for claiming Universal Credit please visit Gov.uk

Contact Information

Name of Team: Housing Benefits

Telephone : 01495 353398

Email: benefits@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk