UC switch coming up from IS

OldBrownShoe

Due to DV I had to leave my home in September with my 3 children. I was a SAHM before and applied for and was awarded IS, HB, CTB and CTC for 2 children. I rent privately.

I have a change of circumstance coming up in April (currently pregnant) and I’ll be switched to UC.

I’m really worried about the 5 week wait I’ve been hearing about. An acquaintance has advised me that I would be entitled to apply for a budgeting loan once I’ve been on IS for 6 months and that I should apply for that before I make the switch as I can use that money to tide me over until I get my first UC payment.
I’m wondering if anyone thinks that’s a good or bad idea or if I should wait and ask for an advanced payment of UC. I’m worried about paying my rent as my landlord said he was taking a huge risk by letting to me and I don’t want to let him down.

Thanks.

calcotti

What is the change in circs that is prompting a change to UC?

OldBrownShoe

The baby will be born

poppy12345

That's not classed as a change of circumstances to prompt a move to UC.

fatbelly

'you can only claim Universal Credit if you have responsibility for 2 children or fewer'

I know this is due to change but is there a definite date for when it does?

poppy12345

fatbelly wrote: »

'you can only claim Universal Credit if you have responsibility for 2 children or fewer'

I know this is due to change but is there a definite date for when it does?

Changes take place on 31st January, i believe.

poppy12345

OldBrownShoe wrote: »

The baby will be born

See link for what's classed as change of circumstances.
https://www.entitledto.co.uk/help/changes_that_trigger_Universal_Credit

OldBrownShoe

Thank you, I thought that would be classed as a change in circumstance.

poppy12345

OldBrownShoe wrote: »

Thank you, I thought that would be classed as a change in circumstance.

If your youngest child at the moment reaches 5 before your baby is born then this will be classed as a change of circumstances but not a new baby. This is because you're already claiming Income Support and tax credits.

calcotti

OldBrownShoe wrote: »

Thank you, I thought that would be classed as a change in circumstance.

Additional child is not a relevant change of circumstances which is why I asked the question. You will get additional child benefit for the new baby (£13.70/week). Your other benefits will continue as they are - with the possibility you will get additional housing benefit if the new baby gives you a higher Local Housing Allowance.

OldBrownShoe

Thanks again, My priority at the moment is keeping us all safe with a roof over our heads so having this one less thing to panic about is hugely reassuring.

Youngest child is 18 months so that won’t trigger a change either.

I’m so glad I joined here and posted, you’ve all been a marvellous help.