13 Areas Affected as DWP Ends Key Benefit Payments – What Claimants Need to Know

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is continuing its transition from legacy benefits to Universal Credit, a shift that will affect thousands of claimants across the UK. As part of this managed migration process, a DWP benefit worth up to £5,600 annually will end in 13 areas this month, with those affected required to move to Universal Credit.

Why Is This Happening?

The UK government has been phasing out older benefits in favor of Universal Credit, aiming to simplify the welfare system. The transition is expected to be completed by March 2025. Legacy benefits being replaced include:

• Working Tax Credit
• Child Tax Credit
• Housing Benefit
• Income Support
• Income-Based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
• Income-Related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

Those currently receiving these benefits will need to apply for Universal Credit within a set timeframe after receiving a Migration Notice from the DWP. If they fail to do so, their payments may be stopped entirely.

Which 13 Areas Are Affected?

The DWP is rolling out the changes in phases, and this month’s affected areas include:

1. Aberdeenshire
2. East Ayrshire
3. North Ayrshire
4. South Ayrshire
5. Na h-Eileanan Siar (Western Isles)
6. Stirling
7. Clackmannanshire
8. Falkirk
9. Fife
10. Angus
11. Dundee City
12. Perth & Kinross
13. Moray

How Does This Affect Claimants?

1. Receiving a Migration Notice

If you currently receive one of the legacy benefits listed above, you will receive a letter from the DWP called a ‘Migration Notice.’ This notice provides a deadline (usually three months) to apply for Universal Credit. If you do not apply by the deadline, your payments will stop.

2. Financial Impact – Could You Lose Money?

For some, the switch to Universal Credit may result in receiving a similar or higher amount. However, others may see a reduction in payments. To offset potential losses, the DWP offers Transitional Protection, ensuring that no claimant receives less than their current entitlement at the point of migration. More information on transitional protection is available on Citizens Advice.

3. Payment Differences Under Universal Credit

Universal Credit payments are made monthly, unlike some legacy benefits, which are paid weekly or fortnightly. The amount received will be based on household income, savings, and individual circumstances.

Steps to Take if You Are Affected

If you receive a Migration Notice, follow these steps to avoid payment disruptions:

1. Check Your Mail and Emails Regularly – Ensure you don’t miss your Migration Notice.
2. Apply for Universal Credit Before the Deadline – Waiting too long could result in lost payments.
3. Get Support if Needed – Contact Citizens Advice or your local Jobcentre for assistance.
4. Review Your Budget – Plan for potential changes in payment amounts and frequency.
5. Ensure Transitional Protection Applies – If you’re worried about losing money, ask the DWP about transitional protection options.

What Happens If You Do Nothing?

If a claimant fails to act within the deadline stated in their Migration Notice, their benefits will stop. The DWP has confirmed that there will be no automatic transfer—each claimant must actively apply for Universal Credit. Missing the deadline could result in serious financial difficulty.

What’s Next for the Universal Credit Rollout?

The DWP aims to complete the migration of all remaining legacy benefit claimants by March 2025. This means that more areas will be affected in the coming months, and claimants should prepare for changes in advance.

For more details on Universal Credit and the migration process, visit the official Universal Credit guide on GOV.UK.

Final Thoughts

The transition from legacy benefits to Universal Credit marks a significant change in the UK’s welfare system. While some will benefit from streamlined payments, others may experience financial losses. If you live in one of the affected 13 areas, it’s crucial to check for Migration Notices, apply within the deadline, and seek support if needed.

Stay informed, act promptly, and ensure your financial stability during this transition.

This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.