Recoverable Hardship Payment - How do I claim a Recoverable Hardship Payment?
Recoverable Hardship Payments are reduced-rate payments of Universal Credit (UC) that are made in limited circumstances, including if you have been sanctioned.
- Last reviewed 12 August 2026
To make a claim, you can leave a message in your Universal Credit online journal or speak to your work coach.
You can also make a claim by calling the Universal Credit contact centre.
In England, Scotland and Wales:
Universal Credit helpline (Monday to Friday, 8.00 am to 6.00 pm, closed bank holidays)
- Telephone: 0800 328 5644
- Relay UK: 18001 then 0800 328 5644
- Welsh language: 0800 328 1744
- British Sign Language (BSL) users: Video Relay Service
In Northern Ireland:
Universal Credit Service Centre (Monday to Friday, 9.00 am to 4.00 pm, closed bank holidays)
- Telephone: 0800 012 1331
- Relay UK: 18001 then 0800 012 1331
- Irish Sign Language (ISL) or British Sign Language (BSL) users: Video Relay Service
An appointment will normally be arranged at the Jobcentre office for you to provide the information and evidence required to support your application.
Was this page helpful?
Tell us the problem
*Required
Thank you
Thank you for your feedback. If you would like to tell us more, please visit our contact us page.