If you're claiming a legacy benefit and have a change of circumstances, you might need to stop claiming that benefit and make a new claim for Universal Credit.
If this happens, get advice before making a new claim – as you might not need to claim Universal Credit if:
you live in specified accommodation (such as supported housing) – you can claim Housing Benefit instead
you're moving home but staying in the same local council area – if you're already claiming Housing Benefit you can continue to do so.
Alternatively, you might be told to claim Universal Credit under the ‘managed migration’ process. This is where the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) moves people who are currently claiming legacy benefits over to Universal Credit, which means their legacy benefit stops.
If this managed migration process reduces the amount of money you’re paid, you’ll be given an amount of ‘transitional protection’ to make up the difference.
You might receive a letter inviting you to make a new Universal Credit claim, which stops your entitlement to existing benefits. If this happens, you should get advice before claiming to make sure you don’t lose any money.
Find out how to contact Citizen's Advice for advice on making a Universal Credit claim