DWP Announces £775 Annual Boost for Universal Credit Claimants : The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has introduced a £775 yearly boost for Universal Credit claimants to provide additional financial support amid rising living costs. This extra payment is aimed at low-income households, disabled individuals, and families with children, helping them manage essential expenses such as food, energy bills, and rent.
If you are currently receiving Universal Credit, you may be eligible for this additional financial boost. Here’s everything you need to know about who qualifies, how to claim, and when payments will be made.
What Is the £775 Universal Credit Boost?
The £775 annual boost is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to support struggling households. With inflation and cost-of-living pressures continuing to affect millions across the UK, the DWP has increased certain benefits and allowances under the Universal Credit system.
This payment will not be a lump sum but rather an increase in monthly Universal Credit payments, which will add up to £775 per year.
The boost primarily benefits:
- Universal Credit claimants who are working but on a low income
- Households with children who need extra financial assistance
- Disabled individuals who require additional support
Who Is Eligible for the £775 Boost?
To qualify for the £775 increase, you must meet at least one of the following conditions:
- You Are a Universal Credit Claimant – This boost is specifically for existing Universal Credit recipients who meet eligibility criteria.
- You Are in Low-Paid Employment – If you work but earn below a certain threshold, you may qualify for additional financial help.
- You Have Dependent Children – Households with children will see an increase in their Universal Credit payments.
- You Have a Disability or Health Condition – If you receive additional Universal Credit elements due to a disability, you may be entitled to an increased payment.
- You Are a Carer – Those who provide full-time care for a disabled person may also be eligible for a payment boost.
How Will the £775 Boost Be Paid?
This extra financial support will not be a one-time lump sum. Instead, it will be distributed across your monthly Universal Credit payments, which means an average of:
- £64.58 per month increase in your regular Universal Credit payments
- Payments will automatically adjust based on your circumstances
The payments will be sent directly into claimants’ bank accounts as part of their usual Universal Credit payments.
When Will Universal Credit Claimants Receive the Boost?
The increase is expected to take effect from April 2025, as part of the annual benefit uprating. This means:
- From April 2025, Universal Credit claimants who qualify will automatically receive increased payments.
- No separate application is needed—if you are eligible, you will receive the boost automatically.
- Payments will continue throughout the year, totaling up to £775 extra per household.
How to Check If You Qualify?
If you are currently on Universal Credit, you can check your eligibility for the £775 boost by:
- Logging into your Universal Credit account – Check your latest payment breakdown in your online portal.
- Contacting DWP – If you’re unsure, you can call Universal Credit helpline or visit a Jobcentre Plus.
- Using a benefits calculator – Online benefit calculators (available on GOV.UK and charity websites) can estimate how much Universal Credit you should receive.
Other Support Available for Universal Credit Claimants
In addition to the £775 yearly boost, Universal Credit claimants may also benefit from:
- Cost of Living Payments – Low-income households can still receive additional one-off payments.
- Housing Support – Help with rent payments and housing costs.
- Council Tax Reduction – Discounts on council tax bills for eligible low-income families.
- Childcare Support – Working parents on Universal Credit can claim up to 85% of childcare costs.
- Warm Home Discount Scheme – Assistance with energy bills for low-income households.
Final Thoughts
The £775 Universal Credit boost is welcome financial relief for low-income families, disabled individuals, and workers on low wages. If you are eligible, you do not need to apply—DWP will automatically adjust your payments from April 2025.
To ensure you receive the maximum benefits, keep your Universal Credit details up to date and stay informed about other government support programs available.
