A local expert from Citizen’s Advice provides timely tips on consumer issues.
Q: We have three children. Because I only work part-time, we have a claim for Universal Credit (UC). My work coach told me that my payments would change in April. What should I look out for?
A : The government has made changes to UC that affect all claimants and may mean that some families who weren’t previously eligible for UC now are.
The ‘standard allowance’
Everyone’s UC includes a standard amount, called the ‘standard allowance’. How much you receive depends on your age and if you live with a partner. The standard amount increased on 6 April 2026.
If you have three or more children
If you claim UC, you can get an extra amount for any children or qualifying young people you’re responsible for. This extra money is called the ‘child element’. In the past, you could usually only claim a child element for your first two children, but the ‘two child limit’ was removed on 6th April 2026. You can now get a child element for each child. If you have three or more children but weren’t previously eligible for UC, you might now be eligible. Check how much Universal Credit you’ll get.
If you have a long-term health condition or a disability
If you’re eligible for UC, you might get more money if you have difficulty working because you’re sick, disabled or have a long-term health condition. If the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) says you have ‘limited capability for work-related activity’, you might get an additional payment with your UC, called the LCWRA or health element.
From 6 April 2026, this payment is either a higher amount of £429.80 a month, or a lower amount of £217.26 a month. If you were already getting UC with the LCWRA element, you’ll get the higher amount. However, if you reported your health condition or disability on or after 6th April and the DWP say you have LCWRA, you’ll probably get the lower amount, unless you meet certain specific health criteria. Check the criteria to get the higher amount of LCWRA.
Please be aware that, if your UC goes up because of these changes, you may either hit the benefit cap or become liable to pay council tax. Use a benefit checker to see whether this applies to you and contact your local Citizens Advice if you need help.
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