Universal Credit
If you're on a low income or you're out of work, you might be able to claim Universal Credit to boost your income.
Changes to mixed age couples benefits
The way benefits are awarded to mixed age couples has changed. Find out if this affects you and what you should do if it does.
What has changed for mixed aged couples benefits?
As of 15 May 2019, mixed age couples are no longer able to choose whether they claim Universal Credit or Pension Credit and pension-age Housing Benefit.
Instead, mixed age couples can only claim Universal Credit until they both reach State Pension age.
Challenging the Age Gap Tax
Find out more about how °ÄÃÅÁùºÏ²ÊÖ±²¥×î¿ì¿ª½± campaigned against these changes to mixed age couples benefits.
What if I was already claiming Pension Credit or Housing Benefit before 15 May 2019?
If you were already claiming these benefits on 15 May 2019, you shouldn't be affected. However, if your circumstances change or you take a break from claiming, it might mean you have to claim Universal Credit instead.
Some of the changes that might affect your claim include:
- a change of address to a different local council area
- going abroad for more than 4 weeks
- a change in the amount of capital you have
- stopping claiming a benefit that helps you qualify for Pension Credit or Housing Benefit
- separating from your partner and then getting back together.
In this case, it's best to get advice on your situation. Contact your local °ÄÃÅÁùºÏ²ÊÖ±²¥×î¿ì¿ª½± or call the °ÄÃÅÁùºÏ²ÊÖ±²¥×î¿ì¿ª½± Advice Line on 0800 678 1602.
We're here to help
We offer support through our free advice line on 0800 678 1602. Lines are open 8am-7pm, 365 days a year. We also have specialist advisers at over 120 local °ÄÃÅÁùºÏ²ÊÖ±²¥×î¿ì¿ª½±s.