Moving from Tax credit to UC

Cruncher8934

Hi,
I was made redundant whilst pregnant with my first child (1yo) so claimed tax credits. I'm now due my 2nd child so used entitledto website to see if there will be a change in my tax credits.

My area moved fully to universal credit earlier this year so I'm wondering if I notify them of a change ie 2nd baby that means I will have to move to universal credit. Also will I have to go to regular interviews at job centre.

My husband works, but he works shifts so for me to work even part time I will need to put two under preschool into nursery which we can't afford as I wouldn't be able to afford the fees.

I read that once youngest is 1 I will have to start looking for work or lose payments.

poppy12345

This would not prompt a move to Universal Credit. See this link.
https://www.welfare-benefits-unit.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/What-triggers-a-claim-for-Universal-Credit-in-a-full-service-area.pdf

Cruncher8934

Brilliant thank you!

Am I right in thinking they the universal credit is only for the 1st year unless I'm actively looking for work & going to interviews at job centre?

poppy12345

UC is a single monthly payment for those in or out of work and it's replacing 6 means tested benefits. Once you claim UC you can't go back to claiming any of the legacy benefits. Full details explained here in this link.
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/universal-credit/before-you-apply/what-universal-credit-is/

Cruncher8934

Thanks, while claiming do I need to go for regular interviews at the job centre? Or does it work like tax credits where it runs monthly until my circumstances change to the degree I know longer require it?

poppy12345

It depends on circumstances. Please note that an extra child will not mean you'll have to move to UC. Managed migrations won't start until at least 2019 but much later in some area. It could even be years.

You'll stay on tax credits until you're asked to move across, unless your circumstances before that mean you have to move.