Universal Credit – clarification on some of the finer points 

The follow questions were raised at the Universal Credit meeting attended by some of our members and clarification for these are now given below

1. Can Universal Credit be paid into a Post Office Card Account?
2. Yes, Universal Credit can be paid into a POCA.

1. Will the Universal Credit helpline staff be able to make the application for claimants with complex needs?
2. All calls relating to Universal Credit will be handled by Universal Credit Service Centre staff, there is no dedicated Universal Credit helpline. Whilst it is technically possible for Service Centre staff to make an application for customers, this will only be done in exceptional circumstances.

1. What is the process for verification of Under 18s and those who may have fled domestic violence (i.e. don’t have the required documentation)
2. There is a process in place in DWP which may be replicated in Northern Ireland.

1. It would appear that there will be a 6 week waiting period before any payment in NI, despite the fact that the benefit will be paid bi-monthly here.  Was this discussed at the event?
2. A. Payment of Universal Credit will be twice monthly in Northern Ireland. The 6 week waiting period only applies before the first payment is made.

 

 

 

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