The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has released updated guidelines on how to apply for Universal Credit benefits if you are a parent.
A new section on the GOV.UK website provides details on additional support available for individuals responsible for the care of a child. If your first child was born before April 6, 2017, you may be eligible for an extra £339 per month under Universal Credit.
For children born on or after April 6, 2017, or for second children, the supplemental amount is £292.81. Generally, there are no additional payments for a third or subsequent child, except in specific cases, such as twins where an extra payment may be applicable.
Any supplementary funds received will be disbursed until August 31 following the child’s 16th birthday. If your child is in full-time education or approved training, payments can continue until they turn 19.
Parents of disabled children may receive an additional monthly allowance, regardless of the number of children in the household.
The disabled child addition can be paid at either a lower rate of £158.76 or a higher rate of £423.27. The eligibility for work and Universal Credit depends on whether you are the primary caregiver and the age of your child, as outlined on the GOV.UK page.
You must designate a primary caregiver, or as a single parent, you automatically assume this role. While there is no work requirement when your youngest child is under one year old, you are generally expected to start working or preparing for work by the time they are 3 years old.
If you are not the primary caregiver and not working full-time, you are typically expected to actively seek full-time employment.
The GOV.UK page also details how you can reclaim up to 85% of childcare expenses if you are employed or preparing to enter the workforce 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. The childcare provider must be registered, including options like nurseries, preschools, childminders, and after-school programs.
Claims for childcare expenses should be submitted through your Universal Credit account, allowing for reimbursement of up to three months of past childcare costs.
It is advisable to report childcare expenses promptly, as delays beyond two months may result in a loss of reimbursement. Additionally, you can claim up to three months in advance for future childcare, with reimbursement upon service delivery.
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