Migration to Universal Credit

Universal Credit is replacing older (legacy) benefits for people of working age, or in some cases those who a part of a mixed age couple e.g. one person in the couple is of pension age.

You’ll have to move to Universal Credit if you receive a letter from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) telling you to claim by a certain date - this is a 'migration notice'.

You will receive a migration notice if you:

• receive Income Support
• Income-based Job Seeker's Allowance (JSA)
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
• Housing Benefit or Tax Credits.

If you get a migration notice, you should claim Universal Credit by the date on the letter to keep getting financial support.

You may also migrate onto Universal Credit before you receive a migration notice if your circumstances change.

You can find out more information about moving to Universal Credit on the Government website.

How do I apply for Universal Credit?

You can apply for Universal Credit through the Government website.

Is my Council Tax Support affected?

Universal Credit does not replace the Council Tax Support scheme. If you already receive council tax support, you should notify us that you have made an application for Universal Credit by reporting a change in circumstances.

If you do not receive Council Tax Support and believe you may be entitled to it, you can apply on our website.

I am a Melton Borough Council tenant

Difficulties paying your rent

Rent is due to be paid in advance and on time. If you need to check the details, please refer to your tenancy agreement. If you have any concerns, we're here to help.

If you are one of our tenants and are struggling to make payment, our Income Team are here to support you.

Our Income Team can discuss with you:

• When your payment date is.
• If there are any issues with paying rent directly to us.
• Calculate the monthly rent.
• Set up an affordable payment arrangement plan to prevent the account going into arrears.

If you are struggling to make payments, please contact us on 01664 502 502 or sustainabilityandincome@melton.gov.uk. 

Support we can offer

There is a number of ways we can support you with your rent:

• We have a dedicated Income Team that can be contacted on 01664 502502 or email sustainabilityandincome@melton.gov.uk
• The Community Support Hub (Phoenix House) offers support services.
• You can also seek some independent free advice. This could be from your local Citizens Advice Bureau or MADMAC.

What happens if you do not pay your rent

It is very important that you pay your rent. If you miss a rent payment you will be in arrears. We will normally take legal action where we are owed over £100 and a repayment arrangement is not being maintained.

If you don’t pay your rent you could lose your home and struggle to be rehoused by another local authority or housing association.

If you are having difficulties or are worried about paying your rent, please contact us as soon as possible. The sooner you get in touch, the sooner we can help you.