The DWP has issued a warning to benefit claimants – with a minister saying responding is ‘crucial’
DWP benefit claimants are being warned to watch out for a vital letter as the Government continues its mass benefits switch over to Universal Credit. Thousands of people receiving older payment schemes are being shifted across to the new benefit system, and ministers have issued fresh guidance on what to expect.
Recipients will receive a letter from the DWP called a managed migration notice, inviting them to apply for Universal Credit as payments for their previous benefits will eventually be stopped, reports the Express. Social security minister Sir Stephen Timms stressed the importance of acting quickly, saying: “If you get that letter asking you to move to Universal Credit, don’t ignore it.
“It’s crucial to respond, so you can keep getting the support you’re entitled to.” The correspondence will set out the deadline by which you must submit your application, though claimants can request an extension if they have valid reasons for needing more time.
To arrange this, contact the Universal Credit Migration Notice Helpline on 0800 169 0328, available Monday to Friday between 8am and 6pm. The tax credits system has now been completely phased out and replaced by Universal Credit, affecting both Working Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit claimants.
Several other benefits are also being wound down, including: income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Income Support and income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA). The DWP has been offering specialist support for more vulnerable ESA claimants during the transition, with over 95 percent of ESA recipients now moved to Universal Credit. Around 40 percent of these individuals received personalised assistance through what’s known as the enhanced support journey, officials say.
This assistance encompasses telephone support, household visits and additional help from specialist teams. Mr Timms said: “Over 220,000 vulnerable people have now got the specialist support they need to move to Universal Credit – proof that we’re delivering a social security system that has respect at its heart.
“We’re making sure no one gets left behind, offering real help throughout the process via our helpline, online guidance, and Citizens Advice support.” Income Support and income-based Jobseekers’ Allowance will close at the start of April 2026.
