The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has released updated guidelines on how to apply for Universal Credit benefits if you have children.
A new webpage on GOV.UK details the additional support available for individuals caring for children. If your first child was born before April 6, 2017, you may qualify for an extra £339 per month in Universal Credit.
For first children born on or after April 6, 2017, or for second children, the supplemental amount is £292.81. Typically, no additional payments are made for a third or subsequent child, except in certain cases, such as receiving extra support for one child if you have twins.
The extra funds you receive will be distributed until August 31 following your child’s 16th birthday. Payments can continue until the child reaches 19 years old if they are pursuing full-time education or approved training.
If you have children with disabilities, you may be eligible for an additional monthly allowance, irrespective of the number of children in your care.
The disabled child addition payment ranges from a lower rate of £158.76 to a higher rate of £423.27. The eligibility criteria for seeking employment while receiving Universal Credit depend on whether you are the primary caregiver and the age of your child.
You must designate a primary caregiver, or if you are a single parent, you are automatically considered the primary caregiver. While not required to work when your youngest child is under one year old, you are generally expected to seek employment or prepare for work by the time they turn 3.
If you are not the primary caregiver and not employed full-time, you are typically expected to actively seek full-time employment.
The GOV.UK page also provides information on reclaiming up to 85% of childcare expenses if you are employed or planning to start working while receiving Universal Credit.
The maximum monthly reimbursement for childcare is £1,031.88 for one child or £1,768.94 for two or more children. Eligible childcare providers include nurseries, preschools, after-school clubs, breakfast clubs, childminders, nannies, and school holiday clubs.
Claims for childcare costs must be submitted through your Universal Credit account, allowing for retroactive claims of up to three months.
It is advisable to report your childcare expenses promptly after payment, as delays exceeding two months may affect reimbursement.
Additionally, you can request reimbursement for up to three months of future childcare expenses, but the funds will only be disbursed once the childcare services have been provided.