Clarification on "take home pay" whilst on UC

novamation

I'm confused by the "take home pay", and why it doesn't include the actual UC?

I've not been getting free prescriptions because I'd been adding the amounts I earn through self-employment to my UC and if it's over £435, then I've been paying for the prescriptions, but I've just found out that the UC doesn't count?

UC doesn't count as earnings then?

poppy12345

The actual total amount of UC you received doesn't count.  If your earnings (from working) are less than £435 or £935 depending on your circumstances for that assessment period then you'll be entitled to free prescriptions. https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/help-nhs-prescription-costs/free-nhs-prescriptions/hwhc-universal-credit

If you’re getting Universal Credit, your entitlement to free or reduced cost NHS healthcare depends on your earnings for the most recent assessment period. You’re entitled if your earnings during that period were:

• £435 or less
• £935 or less if your Universal Credit includes an element for a child, or if you have a limited capability for work or limited capability for work and work related activity.

‘Most recent assessment period’ means the assessment period that ended immediately before the date you claim free NHS healthcare. It runs for a calendar month.

If you claim Universal Credit as a couple, the earnings limit applies to the joint income of you and your partner.

Your Universal Credit award notice can be shown as proof that you’re entitled.

calcotti

Universal Credit is not earnings.