The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has released updated guidelines on how to apply for Universal Credit benefits if you have children.
A new section on the GOV.UK website details the additional support available for individuals responsible for child care. If your first child was born before April 6, 2017, you may qualify for an extra £339 per month in Universal Credit.
For children born on or after April 6, 2017, or for second children, the supplementary amount is £292.81. Typically, there are no additional payments for a third or subsequent child, except in certain circumstances like having twins.
Any extra payments received will continue until August 31 following your child’s 16th birthday. If your child remains in full-time education or approved training, payments can extend until they reach 19 years old.
Additional financial support may be available if you have a disabled child, regardless of the number of children in your care.
The disabled child addition can range from £158.76 to £423.27. The eligibility criteria for work and Universal Credit depend on your role as the primary caregiver and your child’s age.
Designating a primary caregiver is necessary, or as a single parent, you are automatically considered the primary caregiver. While not required to work when your youngest child is under one year old, preparation for work is expected by the time they turn 3.
If you are not the primary caregiver and not employed full-time, you are generally expected to seek full-time employment.
The GOV.UK resource also outlines the process for reclaiming up to 85% of childcare expenses if you are working or preparing to work while receiving Universal Credit.
The maximum monthly childcare claim is £1,031.88 for one child or £1,768.94 for two or more children, with the childcare provider being registered. Eligible childcare options include nursery, preschool, after-school clubs, childminders, nannies, and school holiday clubs.
To claim childcare expenses, you must use your Universal Credit account and can request reimbursement for up to three months of past childcare costs.
It is advisable to report childcare expenses promptly to ensure timely reimbursement, as delays beyond two months may impact your eligibility for refunds.
Advance claims for future childcare, up to three months, are permissible, but reimbursement is contingent on the delivery of the childcare services.