Deductions From Universal Credit

We understand that navigating the complex world of government benefits can be overwhelming. That’s why we want to provide you with comprehensive information on how much can be taken from your Universal Credit payments.

As you may already know, your Universal Credit payment is calculated at the end of each Assessment Period. Your online account will show a breakdown of each deduction taken from your Universal Credit payments.

So, how much can be taken from your payments? The maximum amount that can be taken each month is 25% of your Universal Credit Standard Allowance.

This is the basic amount of Universal Credit you are entitled to, before any additional funds for things like childcare and housing costs are added. However, in some cases, last resort deductions may be taken, which could exceed the 25% limit.

If you have a joint claim for Universal Credit with your partner, you will both receive a joint payment for your household, paid twice a month. Any debts or deductions you or your partner have will be taken from your Universal Credit payments before you receive them.

We understand that deductions can be difficult to manage, especially if they result in financial hardship. If you are struggling to make ends meet due to deductions from your Universal Credit payments, you can request a “financial hardship decision” to reduce your deductions.

This decision will be considered if deductions are being taken from your payments for repaying Tax Credit overpayments, paying off benefit debt, or repaying a Social Fund loan.

If approved, the new reduced deductions will take effect from the start of your next assessment period.

It’s important to note that if your total deductions would be more than 25% of your Universal Credit Standard Allowance, deductions will be made in a specific order of priority.

Fraud penalties and sanctions will be deducted first, followed by Universal Credit advance loans, budgeting advance loans, and other deductions such as housing costs, fines, and child maintenance.

At Universalcredit.co.uk, we want to ensure that you have all the information you need to make informed decisions about your Universal Credit payments. If you need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you every step of the way.