The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has officially confirmed that several older welfare payments, commonly known as legacy benefits, will come to an end by 31 March. As part of this final stage of welfare reform, millions of households across the UK are now receiving Universal Credit migration letters explaining what steps they must take to continue receiving financial support.
This announcement marks a significant milestone in the government’s long-running transition to Universal Credit, a system designed to replace multiple benefits with a single monthly payment. For many claimants, especially those who have relied on the same benefits for years, the letters have raised important questions about deadlines, payments, and what happens next.
Why the DWP Is Ending Older Benefits
The move away from legacy benefits has been planned for over a decade. According to the DWP, maintaining two parallel benefits systems is expensive, complex, and difficult for claimants to navigate. Universal Credit was introduced to simplify welfare support by combining several payments into one.
With most new claims already going through Universal Credit, ending older benefits is seen as the final step in completing the reform process.
Which Benefits Are Classed as Legacy Benefits
The benefits being phased out include Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Housing Benefit for working-age claimants, Working Tax Credit, and Child Tax Credit.
These benefits have been closed to new claimants for some time and are now being fully replaced by Universal Credit.
What the March 31 Deadline Means
The 31 March date does not mean benefits will stop without notice. Instead, it marks the point by which claimants who have been contacted through the managed migration process are expected to have moved onto Universal Credit.
The DWP sends formal letters giving claimants clear instructions and a deadline by which they must submit a Universal Credit claim.
Why Millions Are Receiving Universal Credit Letters
The letters currently being sent are official migration notices. They inform claimants that their existing benefit will end and that they need to apply for Universal Credit to continue receiving support.
Receiving a letter does not stop payments immediately, but it does start a countdown. Ignoring the letter can have serious consequences.
What the Letters Usually Explain
Most Universal Credit letters outline which benefit is ending, the deadline for making a claim, and how to apply. They also provide information about where to get help and what support is available during the transition.
Clear warnings are included about what may happen if no action is taken.
What Happens If the Letter Is Ignored
If a claimant does not apply for Universal Credit by the deadline stated in their letter, their existing benefit may stop. This can leave households without income until a new claim is made.
The DWP strongly advises claimants to act promptly or seek advice if they are unsure.
How Universal Credit Replaces Older Benefits
Universal Credit brings together support for living costs, housing, children, and health-related limitations into a single monthly payment. While this simplifies administration, it represents a major change from the older system.
Payments are usually made monthly, which can require adjustments for people used to weekly or fortnightly income.
Why Some Claimants Worry About Losing Money
Many people are concerned that Universal Credit could leave them financially worse off. The DWP says that transitional protection is available for those who move through managed migration and would otherwise receive less.
This protection ensures that claimants do not see an immediate drop in income at the point of transfer.
What Transitional Protection Means
Transitional protection provides a top-up to Universal Credit so that payments match previous benefit levels at the time of migration. However, this protection can reduce over time if circumstances change.
It only applies to claimants who move after receiving an official DWP migration letter.
Why Timing Your Claim Matters
Applying for Universal Credit too early or without a migration notice can result in losing transitional protection. This is why following the letter’s instructions carefully is essential.
Claimants are encouraged not to rush but to act within the given timeframe.
What Support Is Available for Claimants
The DWP provides telephone and in-person support for people who struggle with online applications. Additional help is available through local organisations, advice centres, and charities.
Claimants do not have to manage the transition alone.
How Housing Benefit Is Affected
For working-age claimants, Housing Benefit is replaced by the housing element of Universal Credit. This means rent support is included in the monthly payment rather than paid separately.
Some tenants may need time to adjust to managing rent payments directly.
What Pensioners and Disabled Claimants Should Know
Most people who have reached State Pension age are not required to move to Universal Credit, as Pension Credit remains in place. However, mixed-age couples may still be affected.
Disabled and long-term sick claimants currently receiving income-related ESA are also included in the migration process, with protections in place.
What Happens After Someone Applies
After submitting a Universal Credit claim, there is usually an assessment period before the first payment is made. Advance payments are available for those who need financial support sooner.
The DWP aims to ensure continuity of support wherever possible.
What Claimants Should Do Now
Anyone who receives a Universal Credit migration letter should read it carefully, note the deadline, and seek help if needed. Acting early can prevent delays and reduce stress.
Ignoring the letter could risk losing entitlement.
Final Thoughts
The confirmation that older benefits will end by 31 March represents one of the biggest changes to the UK welfare system in decades. While the transition to Universal Credit may feel daunting, support and safeguards are in place for those who follow the process.
Staying informed, responding on time, and using available support can help ensure a smoother move during this final phase of welfare reform.
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