DWP Set to End Four Legacy Benefits in May 2025 – Check Eligibility & Payment Date

DWP Set to End Four Legacy Benefits in May 2025: The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is moving forward with its plan to end four legacy benefits by May 2025, requiring hundreds of thousands of claimants to move to Universal Credit. If you are currently receiving Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), or Housing Benefit, it’s important to check your eligibility and understand the payment dates to avoid disruptions in your financial support. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the upcoming changes, how to transition smoothly, and how to protect your payments during the shift.

DWP Set to End Four Legacy Benefits in May 2025

What Are Legacy Benefits?

Legacy benefits are the older forms of welfare payments that Universal Credit is designed to replace. These include:

• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
• Housing Benefit (excluding those in supported or temporary accommodation)

Working Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit were phased out earlier, ending officially on 5 April 2025.

Why DWP Set to End Four Legacy Benefits in May 2025?

The government introduced Universal Credit to simplify the benefits system. Instead of managing multiple payments, claimants will receive one monthly payment that covers living costs, rent, and other eligible expenses. It aims to make work more rewarding and to streamline the support system.

According to the DWP, the Universal Credit rollout is expected to affect approximately 900,000 people by the end of 2025.

Receiving a Migration Notice

If you are affected, you will receive a Migration Notice from the DWP. This letter will tell you:

• That your current benefits are ending
• When you must apply for Universal Credit
• How to start your application

You will generally have three months from the date on the letter to apply. Missing this deadline could result in your benefits stopping.

What Should You Do After Receiving a Migration Notice?

1. Read your letter carefully and note your deadline.
2. Gather necessary information such as ID documents, bank details, housing information, and income records.
3. Apply online, by phone, or through your local Jobcentre Plus.
4. Contact support services like Citizens Advice if you need help with your application.

Who Is Not Affected?

Not everyone receiving older benefits is impacted by this transition. If you are receiving:

• Contribution-based JSA
• Contribution-based ESA
• Carer’s Allowance
• Attendance Allowance
• Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
• Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

you are not required to move to Universal Credit as part of this migration.

However, if you also receive a legacy benefit listed above, you will still be affected.

Transitional Protection: Keeping Your Payments Safe

If your entitlement under Universal Credit is less than your legacy benefits, transitional protection ensures you don’t lose money immediately.

Key points about transitional protection:

• Only available if you move after receiving a Migration Notice.
• You must apply within the deadline.
• If your circumstances change significantly (like starting a new job or a partner moving in), the transitional protection may end.

Step-by-Step Example: Moving to Universal Credit

Imagine Jane, a single mother, receives Income Support and Housing Benefit.

1. Jane gets her Migration Notice on June 1, 2025, with a deadline of September 1, 2025.
2. She reads the letter, gathers her documents, and goes to the GOV.UK website.
3. Jane completes her Universal Credit application online within two weeks.
4. Because her Income Support amount was higher than what she would receive on UC, she qualifies for transitional protection to cover the difference.
5. Jane continues receiving her payments without interruption.

Following this straightforward process can help anyone make the shift smoothly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring the Migration Notice: Missing your deadline could result in a break or end of payments.
• Assuming you are not affected: Even if your situation seems unique, verify your status with the DWP or Citizens Advice.
• Applying late: Although there’s a one-month grace period, it’s safer to apply early.
• Failing to seek advice: Help is available, and getting support can avoid mistakes that delay your claim.

How to Apply for Universal Credit?

There are three main ways:

Online

The quickest and easiest way is through the official Universal Credit website.

By Phone

Call the Universal Credit Migration Notice Helpline at 0800 169 0328 if you cannot apply online.

In-Person

Visit your local Jobcentre Plus for in-person help. Advisors can assist you with creating an online account and filling out your application.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What happens if I do not apply for Universal Credit after receiving a Migration Notice?
A: Your current benefits will stop after your deadline passes. You may lose transitional protection.

Q: Will I get the same amount of money?
A: In most cases, yes. If not, transitional protection will temporarily cover the difference.

Q: Can I move back to my old benefits after claiming Universal Credit?
A: No. Once you move to Universal Credit, you cannot return to your legacy benefits.

Q: What if I have over £16,000 in savings?
A: You can still claim if you apply after receiving a Migration Notice, but after 12 months, you must meet normal eligibility rules.

Q: How long does it take to get my first Universal Credit payment?
A: Usually about five weeks. You can apply for an advance if needed.