The United Kingdom’s welfare system is undergoing a major transformation, with significant changes announced by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
By March 2026, six legacy benefits will be discontinued, as part of a government strategy to streamline payments and provide a simpler system through Universal Credit (UC).
The move marks the final phase of the UK’s welfare modernization, affecting millions of claimants across the country.
Benefits to Be Phased Out
The six legacy benefits that will be replaced by Universal Credit are vital income support mechanisms for many families and individuals in the UK.
These payments, which have been in place for years, will no longer be available after the transition. The table below outlines the legacy benefits that will be phased out and their purpose:
| Benefit Name | Primary Objective |
|---|---|
| Child Tax Credit | Financial support for families with dependent children. |
| Working Tax Credit | Income supplement for individuals in low-paid employment. |
| Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) | Support for job seekers with limited savings and income. |
| Income Support | Payment to individuals on low income who are not expected to work. |
| Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) | Assists those with limited capability for work due to health conditions. |
| Housing Benefit | Provides rent assistance to low-income individuals and families. |
How the Transition to Universal Credit Will Be Managed
The transition to Universal Credit (UC) began in 2013, and since then, the process has evolved in phases. Initially, new claimants were moved to UC, followed by a gradual process for existing claimants.
In 2019, a managed migration model was introduced, targeting those on more complex benefits like ESA and Housing Benefit.
The DWP has set a clear deadline for the migration of these final groups of claimants by March 2026. This includes individuals receiving benefits such as ESA, Housing Benefit, and Income Support.
The transition notices, sent out in mid-2024, are critical for claimants to follow in order to avoid losing their benefits.
What Claimants Need to Do
When a claimants receives their migration notice, they must take immediate action. The notice will include a deadline by which they must apply for Universal Credit.
Failure to apply within the given timeframe will result in the termination of their existing legacy benefits. Claimants must follow the steps outlined below:
- Read the Migration Notice Carefully – Understand the deadline and instructions.
- Submit Your Application for Universal Credit – Do this within three months of receiving the notice.
- Gather Necessary Documents – Bank details, employment status, income sources, and housing information will be required for the application.
- Access Support Services – For those who need assistance, support is available through Jobcentre Plus and other authorized partners.
Claimants who do not respond to the notice risk losing all entitlement to their legacy benefits and will have to start a new claim for Universal Credit, with no transitional support.
Transitional Protection and Financial Safeguards
For those moving from legacy benefits to Universal Credit, transitional protection will ensure that they do not experience a sudden drop in income.
This protection acts as a financial buffer by adding a top-up to the claimant’s new UC payments. However, this protection is temporary and may decrease over time, depending on changes in the claimant’s circumstances, such as income or family composition.
It’s important to note that transitional protection only applies to those who are migrating through the managed migration process. Claimants who move voluntarily or miss the deadline will not receive this safeguard.
Impact on Populations Most Affected
While the transition for most of the population has already been completed, certain groups are more affected by this final phase of migration.
Individuals receiving ESA and Housing Benefit, especially those with health conditions or limited access to digital resources, may face challenges during the process. As of 2025, the following groups are the most impacted by the migration:
| Benefit Type | Estimated Claimants |
|---|---|
| Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) | 900,000+ |
| Housing Benefit (non-UC eligible cases) | 1.6 million+ |
| Income Support | 200,000 |
| Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) | 100,000 |
| Child and Working Tax Credit | Mostly migrated |
These claimants, totaling over 2.8 million people, are now entering the final phase of migration. The government is providing additional resources to ensure these individuals receive the necessary guidance and support to make the transition smoothly.
Key Things to Remember
- Update your contact information with the DWP to ensure you receive the migration notice.
- Missing the deadline means losing access to legacy benefits permanently.
- Severe Disability Premiums may offer extra protections for some claimants.
- Digital barriers are being addressed by offering in-person or telephone support to those who need it.
The end of six legacy benefits by March 2026 represents the completion of a major restructuring within the UK welfare system. Claimants must act swiftly to avoid losing their benefits and ensure they transition to Universal Credit on time.
FAQs
What happens if I miss the migration deadline?
Missing the deadline will result in the termination of your legacy benefits. You will have to start a new Universal Credit claim with no transitional safeguards.
Who is eligible for transitional protection?
Transitional protection applies to claimants who move through the managed migration process. Those who voluntarily switch or miss the deadline will not receive this protection.
What do I need to apply for Universal Credit?
You will need to provide identification documents, income details, housing arrangements, and other relevant information to complete your Universal Credit application.