Check how Universal Credit is changing in 2026

The government have announced changes to Universal Credit that will affect everyone from April 2026. This is the result of the ‘Universal Credit Act 2025’.

The amount of Universal Credit you get will change. This is because the Universal Credit ‘standard allowance’ is increasing. A monthly Universal Credit payment is made up of a standard allowance plus any additional payments you might get based on your circumstances.

You might also be affected by the April 2026 changes if you get the additional payment because you have a long-term health condition or a disability. This payment is called the ‘limited capability for work-related activity’ (LCWRA) element. The amount is decreasing for most people who aren’t already getting it.

If you get any other benefits, they will not be affected by the Universal Credit Act – the changes only apply to Universal Credit. For example, if you get Personal Independence Payment (PIP), it will not be affected by these changes.

For further information about these changes, please follow this link: citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/universal-credit/claiming/check-how-universal-credit-is-changing-in-2026/?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=evergreen