DWP confirms Universal Credit changes impacting 7.5 million claimants in April

Starting in April, 7.5 million Universal Credit claimants in the UK will face new requirements to more frequently confirm any changes in their circumstances, as confirmed by Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disabilities. This change, announced in the Autumn Budget 2024, aims to ensure that claimants report any changes that could affect their benefit entitlements, with periodic redeclarations taking place potentially every six months. Alongside this, Universal Credit payment rates will increase by 1.7% next month, and deductions for third-party debts will decrease from 25% to 15%. The Department for Work and Pensions is also set to introduce new welfare system reforms ahead of the Spring Statement on March 26, targeting improved employment support for individuals. The number of Universal Credit recipients has surged by 1.1 million from the previous year, highlighting the growing reliance on this benefit. These changes are part of broader efforts to manage the benefits budget while supporting those in need.