Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Universal Credit: Monthly Assessment Period

Monday 27 January 2020 · 1 question

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 1 Partly answered 0 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Ministerial Department is reviewing steps to ensure universal credit monthly assessment period aligns with fluctuating incomes.
  • Universal credit payments reflect claimants' actual monthly circumstances, evening out over a year.
  • Department acknowledges budgeting challenges and seeks solutions.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Jeff Smith Lab Wythenshawe and Sale East
Benefits & Welfare
Context

The UK's Universal Credit system assesses claimants' income on a monthly basis, which may not align with when they are paid.

Question

What steps her Department is taking to ensure that the monthly assessment period for universal credit reflects fluctuating income? Does she agree with Unison and CPAG that people should be allowed to adjust their assessment periods?

Answer from Will Quince (Minister for Families, Working Age Welfare and Housing)

The amount of universal credit paid reflects claimants' actual circumstances each month. Over a year, it levels out so people do not lose out. However, budgeting issues persist, and I am keen to find a solution.

Answered

Not addressed: Did not address specific recommendations from Unison and CPAG

How: Levels Out Over Year, Keen To Find Solution

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