Universal Credit – Guidance
To receive UC you will have to Claim on-line.
The Department for Work and Pensions advise that once your claim has been completed you must attend the Job Centre to agree and sign a Claimant Commitment in order to receive your first payment. Once you receive your first payment, it will then be your responsibility to pay your rent.
The Scotland Act 2016 gave the Scottish Government powers to vary how Universal Credit is paid in Scotland. People claiming Universal Credit and living in Scotland can choose to:
- be paid either monthly or twice monthly; and
- have the housing costs in their award of Universal Credit paid to themselves or to their landlord.
Further details can be found here or watch a ‘How To’ video here.
Digital Support
If you are not able to complete your claim online or do not have access to the internet, you can use public access computers at the following locations:
- Jobcentre Plus office
- Local Library
- Scottish Borders Council contact centers
- Housing Association Offices – Waverley Housing have two public access computers available in our reception area and we will be able to provide you with assistance if required.
If you have any questions regarding Universal Credit please contact the office on UCcustomerenquiries@waverley-housing.co.uk and we will respond to you within one working day or alternatively please contact the office on 01450 364200
Other Useful Contacts:
Department for Work and Pensions
Website: www.dwp.gov.uk (click here)
Telephone: 0800 055 6688
Scottish Borders Council
Website: www.scotborders.gov.uk/universalcredit (click here)
Customer Services: 0300 100 1800
Welfare Benefits Service: 01896 661394
Citizens Advice Bureau
Website: www.cas.org.uk (click here)
Galashiels Office: 01896 753889
Hawick Office: 01450 374266
Kelso Office: 01573 223516
