UC- what happens if I earn more one month?

Mamai

i,

I work parttime at the minute and my wage is the same every month. I’ve an opportunity to do what’s essentially some freelance work outside of my hours. It could mean 2-3 times a year I would get an additional £2000 via a cheque. This job would technically be as self employed.

What way would my UC be affected by this? Would it just mean on those months I get the extra money I would probably not receive UC that month but go back to normal the next month? How do I also declare this if it’s self employed?

I’m pretty reliant on the UC at the minute so not sure if this opportunity is worth my while.

I also get help with childcare from UC so would I not get that on those months where I earn extra?

Thanks

calcotti

If you are elf employed you declare this to UC. Every month you will be required to report your income and expenditure related to your self employment (even if nil) in order for your monthly payment to be processed.

The difference between your income and expenditure is treated as earnings.
https://www.gov.uk/self-employment-and-universal-credit
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/universal-credit-and-self-employment-quick-guide/how-to-report-your-earnings-from-self-employment

If you have high income in one month this may affect more than one month of UC payments due to 'surplus earnings' rules which are quite complex. At the moment there is disregard which means you are less likely be affected by this but the disregard is set to reduce from April following which this may be more of an issue.
https://revenuebenefits.org.uk/universal-credit/guidance/entitlement-to-uc/self-employment/surplus-earnings-and-losses