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<p>No one has to wait five weeks for their first payment of Universal Credit. New
claim advances are available to support those in financial need until their first
payment is made. The Department has learnt from where we did not get things right
in the past in the legacy benefit system. Too often, the desire to pay quickly meant
claimants not receiving their correct entitlement as we did not have an appropriate
timeframe to review household circumstances. Universal Credit is calculated to reflect
the claimant’s circumstances at the end of their monthly assessment period to accurately
reflect circumstances at the point of payment.</p><p> </p><p>Claimants can access
up to 100% of the total expected monthly award, which they can pay back over a period
of up to 12 months. We have announced that from October 2021, the repayment period
for these advances will be extended further, to 16 months. Proposed repayments of
the advance are explained, and all claimants are advised to request a level of advance
which is manageable both now and when considering the repayments required.</p><p>
</p><p>Universal Credit is simpler and fairer than the legacy benefit system. It is
designed to target resources at those that need them most and to provide support for
people who can’t work or need help moving towards the labour market. Our work coaches
all undertake a robust learning process which includes a focus on health conditions
and disabilities, how to tailor service delivery according to needs, and has specific
content on requirement setting for people with mental health conditions.</p><p> </p><p>Our
Work Coaches gauge claimants’ financial needs from their first interview. For those
who need help with budgeting, we are able to signpost additional support, for example
through the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS), who can help with personal budgeting
and money management through its free helpline, printed guides and digital guidance.</p>
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