Universal credit – news and dates for Scotland
Universal credit expands to more areas in Scotland
More single parent families with 1 or 2 children will have to claim universal credit instead of income support, income based jobseekers allowance or employment support allowance, child tax credit, working tax credit and housing benefit. It arrives in certain areas on different dates.
Universal credit will begin for new claimants with 1 or 2 children on the dates on the table below. If your area isn’t on the table you are already in a full universal credit area. Check with your postcode on the UC finder below.
Should you claim tax credits or universal credit?
Flexible universal credit payments in Scotland
As part of the new social security powers in Scotland, you now have a choice on how you are paid universal credit. It can be paid twice a month or monthly and the universal credit housing element can be paid directly to you or your landlord.
See the new Scottish Government leaflets for more information: Universal Credit flexibilities for Scotland PDF and Further information on universal credit choices PDF
Download our universal credit advice guide for more details, or call the lone parent helpline on 0808 801 0323 if you need advice.
Next dates for universal credit by jobcentre area:
| Date | Jobcentres in |
|---|---|
| September 2018 | Argyll and Bute East Renfrewshire Eilean Siar Glasgow (part) Govan, Laurieston & Newlands Orkney Islands Renfrewshire Shetland Islands |
| October 2018 | Aberdeen City Glasgow (part) Partick & Springburn West Dunbartonshire |
| November 2018 | City of Edinburgh |
| December 2018 | Glasgow City: Castlemilk, Drumchapel & Shettleston |
