Introduction of universal credit waiting days from 03 August 2015

A new 7-day waiting period at the start of certain universal credit claims will be introduced from the 03 August 2015.

The waiting days will affect entitlement to the full universal credit award including housing costs and child elements where they apply.

Certain groups of people will be exempt including those who are terminally ill, have been a victim of domestic violence, care leavers, young people aged 16 or 17 and without parental support or have recently been a prisoner.

Claimants who migrate from legacy benefits, those moving on and off universal credit due to earnings within a 6 month period and those to whom a new universal credit award is made when a previous award has ended when a claimant becomes part of a couple or splitting from a partner, will also be exempt.