The DWP is in the process of urgently migrating pairs to giving Migration Notice letters in large numbers across the UK. The letters are part of the government’s plan for migrating all claimants from the old “legacy benefits” to Universal Credit. If one receives a letter and does not act, one runs the risk of losing about £3,935 in annual support.
What is the Migration Notice letter?
This letter is sent to those receiving legacy benefits such as Child Tax Credit, Working Tax Credit, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), Income Support, Housing Benefit, or Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA). It informs claimants that these benefits will cease, with the termination date being April 5, 2025, and gives the necessary guidance on claiming Universal Credit for ongoing support.
Why you shouldn’t ignore it?
Most important is that if you do not act, you stand to lose transition protection. This form of money is there to make sure you do not wind up with Universal Credit getting less than you had with the old benefits.
For instance, if one was receiving the maximum Working Tax Credit with a disability enhancement- about £3,935 per year or close to £327.91 per month- he or she might find themselves entitled to Universal Credit for £227 per month. Under transitional protection, his or her payment would be topped up by £100.91. Nonetheless, transitional protection is available only when one comes forward and applies before the Migration Notice expiration. Otherwise, you would miss this money for good.
What happens if you do nothing?
If you ignore the Migration Notice and fail to apply for Universal Credit within the allotted time stated in the Migration Notice, then your legacy benefits will cease and you will no longer be able to gain transitional payments. Furthermore, there will be a devastating impact on family income that may mean a significant loss for many families by not acting timely.
How to Respond to the Migration Letter?
Once you get the letter, please read it carefully. It tells you the date by which you need to apply for Universal Credit in order to secure ongoing support and what to do in the meantime. If you do not apply before this date, you could be left without any support. Contact your local Jobcentre if you are having trouble with your application or understanding anything in the process; or contact charities like Citizens Advice for free assistance with your application.
Important Note for Mixed-Age Couples
Mixed-age couples receiving tax credits have their own rule of thumb that they need to follow. Even if you are working, have just renewed tax credits, or have over £16,000 savings, one can still at the available time contest for Universal Credit as stated in the letter. Always resist that temptation of considering yourself ineligibility because of what you seem to be facing.
Conclusion
This correspondence from the DWP is certainly not going to be another government letter- it is a major step that would help you secure your financial future. Take prompt action so that you do not lose up to £3,935 on support. Pay attention to your letter; it matters what you do with it and when. Seek assistance wherever necessary. Failure to address this notice can lead to a loss in income, which isn’t too difficult to avoid.