Stick or twist? Jumping ship to universal credit

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About this course

Around 6 million people have claimed universal credit (UC), but several million are still on Legacy benefits. Changes to the rules in 2021 made it easier to switch to UC, but is switching a good choice?

This problem is made more acute by DWP announcements that full UC migration may not be completed until 2028 – leaving an unresolved position for possibly 4 more years.

Many Legacy claimants are better off delaying a move to UC, but others should consider switching ASAP. The right choice may be complicated and advisers should not depend on a simple ‘better off’ calculation. This course considers best practice, and looks for a more systematic approach.

The course covers:

The move from Legacy benefits to UC
Who has a choice and why
The residual impact of the abolished SDP Gateway regulation and the ‘Transitional (SDP) Element’ left in its place.
How much can be at risk if you move, and for how long
Who are the winners and losers?
Do you need a ‘crystal ball’ to assist your clients?
Developing a system or pro forma to assist claimants

This course is aimed at advisers with knowledge and experience of advising on UC. Those less experienced should book first on the introductory level course Universal Credit – An Introduction or standard level Universal Credit training.

Method of delivery and timings

This full-day equivalent, experienced-level course, is delivered online via Zoom over two consecutive mornings. It runs from 10am to 1pm on each day, with a half hour break between 11.15-11.45.

It is a practical course delivered using a combination of trainer presentation, exercises and group discussion. Participants will need a Wi-Fi connection and a suitable device to access the internet. It is not recommended to join via a mobile phone.