Can I get a Universal Credit Advance?
You have to be in financial need to get a Universal Credit advance. You may be able to get a UC Advance if you are in financial need following a:
- new claim for Universal Credit, because you have to wait at least five weeks for the first payment
- change of circumstances which means you are waiting for an increase in your entitlement
You will have to tell the DWP how much money you need and what you need it for. You should give a breakdown of how much you need for essential items such as rent, bills, and food. The DWP will then decide whether to pay you an advance and if so how much advance payment they can give you.
If they refuse you a Universal Credit Advance you can ask them to reconsider the decision.
Updated February 2018