The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has significantly increased the issuance of migration notices to households currently receiving income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), with or without Housing Benefit.
Starting in February 2024, around 60,000 notices will be sent each month until the end of the year, urging claimants to transition to Universal Credit (UC).
This move is part of a broader effort to modernize the benefits system, ensuring that claimants receive better employment support while maintaining their financial stability.
With Tax Credits set to close by April 5, 2025, those still relying on them must act swiftly to apply for UC to avoid any payment interruptions.
Universal Credit Transition
The latest push from the DWP aims to transition over 800,000 individuals from ESA to UC by March 2026—two years earlier than initially planned. The process is not automatic, so claimants receiving a migration notice must take action to secure their benefits.
To support this transition, the government has allocated an additional £15 million to the Help to Claim service. This service, run by Citizens Advice and Citizens Advice Scotland, has already helped over a million people navigate the UC application process since 2019.
With the funding boost, it will continue to offer free, independent advice to those making the switch.
Taking Action
Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disability, has emphasized the urgency of responding to migration notices without delay. “This funding boost will support many people as they make the move from old benefits to Universal Credit—ensuring customers feel confident and informed throughout the application process,” he said.
He also highlighted the upcoming employment support reforms, stating that they will help more people get into work by revamping Jobcentres, implementing local employment initiatives, and introducing a Youth Guarantee to ensure young people have access to employment or education opportunities.
Claim Service
The Help to Claim service provides trained advisers who assist claimants throughout the UC application process. This includes:
- Knowing eligibility and potential payment amounts
- Gathering required documents and evidence
- Completing the online application
- Ensuring the first correct UC payment is received
Dame Clare Moriarty, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice, stressed the impact of this service: “Over the last five years, our specially trained advisers have supported thousands of people across Britain to navigate the move from old benefits to Universal Credit.” She added that the service is available via phone, online chat, and British Sign Language to ensure accessibility for all.
Government Initiatives
As part of the Get Britain Working White Paper, the government has allocated £240 million to new initiatives aimed at improving employment support. These include:
| Initiative | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Jobs and Careers Service | Helps jobseekers connect with employers and develop skills |
| Integrated Work, Health, and Skills Plans | Tackles economic inactivity with a focus on health and employment |
| Youth Guarantee | Ensures all young people have opportunities for work or education |
The government aims to integrate these programs with health services to provide a comprehensive support system for jobseekers.
With this major shift underway, those receiving migration notices should act quickly to secure their benefits. Full details on the migration process can be found on GOV.UK.
FAQs
Who will receive migration notices?
Households on income-related ESA with or without Housing Benefit.
What happens if I ignore the migration notice?
You risk losing your current benefits after the deadline.
Is the switch to Universal Credit automatic?
No, you must apply for UC once you receive a migration notice.
What is the Help to Claim service?
It offers free advice for people moving to Universal Credit.
Where can I find more information?
Visit GOV.UK for official details on the migration process.
