Switching to Universal Credit

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is continuing the process of moving customers from legacy benefits to Universal Credit. Managed migration is when DWP transfers people from the old system to Universal Credit.

You’ll receive a migration notice letter inviting you to apply for Universal Credit. The letter will tell you that you need to apply by the deadline given. The letter will also direct you to helpful information on the GOV.UK website and a helpline for further support.

Once you apply for Universal Credit before your deadline, you’ll need to verify your identity, agree to the claimant commitment, and complete any other required steps, just like with any other Universal Credit application.

If you don’t apply for Universal Credit by the deadline in the letter, your legacy benefits will stop.

Please note that no action should be taken until you’ve received your letter. It’s important to understand that you will not be automatically moved to Universal Credit.

Upon receiving your Universal Credit Migration Notice letter, you will have a 3-month window from the date of the letter to make your Universal Credit claim.

Rest assured that support is readily available to aid with your transition, including assistance with your Universal Credit application and managing your finances until you receive your first Universal Credit payment. For more information, visit the Government website.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to our Income Management Team via email at salix.incomemanagement@salixhomes.co.uk or by calling our freephone number on 0800 218 2000.

You can get help paying for your rent if you’re eligible for Universal Credit. This is referred to as a housing costs payment and it replaces the old housing benefit.

This housing payment is paid directly to you and not us.

This means that you’re responsible for paying your rent.

In certain circumstances, if you feel unable to manage making the housing costs payments yourself, arrangements can be made for them to be paid direct to Salix Homes. Please speak to the Income Management team to discuss this.

Many customers have found that paying their rent by Direct Debit or Standing Order helps them budget better. Ask us how you can set up a Direct Debit or re-occurring payment to help you avoid arrears and putting your home at risk. Our Income Management Team can help set these up.