The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has officially stopped payments for two legacy benefits as part of a major overhaul of the welfare system. Income Support and income-based Jobseeker's Allowance are no longer being paid, with claimants expected to have moved to Universal Credit (UC).
End of Legacy Benefits
Officials have confirmed that these benefits have been scrapped, marking a significant step in the migration to UC. The DWP sent migration notices to affected households, giving them three months to apply for UC. Those who failed to do so now face losing their benefits.
Extended Deadline for ESA
In a related update, the DWP has extended the deadline for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) claimants to move to UC, citing concerns for vulnerable people. This extension aims to ensure no one loses payments due to the transition.
Minister for Social Security and Disability, Sir Stephen Timms, stated: "Our Move to Universal Credit campaign has been successful in moving over 1.9 million people from legacy benefits to the modern Universal Credit system. Vulnerable customers have been at the forefront of this campaign. In their interests, we are extending the deadline for income-related Employment Support Allowance claimants to move over."
Impact on Claimants
The DWP noted that the migration campaign, which began in May 2022, has moved over 1.9 million people, including 135,000 Income Support and income-related Jobseeker's Allowance claimants. The department emphasized that UC better reflects today's labor market and offers support to help people move closer to or into work.
Claimants who have not yet applied for UC are urged to do so immediately to avoid disruption to their payments. The DWP continues to provide guidance and support for those transitioning to the new system.
