The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is accelerating a major overhaul of the benefits system, compelling thousands of claimants to attend face-to-face meetings as part of a critical transition. The department is issuing formal migration notices every month to people still receiving older, legacy benefits, requiring them to move to Universal Credit.
The Three-Month Deadline You Cannot Ignore
This process, officially termed 'managed migration', is now actively targeting individuals who claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP) alongside other legacy supports like Income-related Employment and Support Allowance. Crucially, the move to the new system is not automatic.
Claimants receive a formal letter in the post which sets out a strict three-month deadline to submit a new claim for Universal Credit. The DWP has warned that failure to complete this application within the timeframe will result in existing benefit payments being stopped entirely. Recent data indicates a significant number of people have already had their support terminated for not responding.
Transitional Protection and Support Concerns
While PIP itself is not being replaced, the legacy benefits that often accompany it are being phased out. The government states that most claimants will be financially better off or see no change. For those whose entitlement under Universal Credit would be lower, a 'Transitional Protection' top-up payment is available to safeguard their income.
However, charities and advocacy groups have raised serious concerns. They warn that the digital-first application process could pose significant challenges for vulnerable or digitally excluded individuals. There are urgent calls for the DWP to provide more comprehensive, in-person support to prevent people from falling through the cracks and into poverty or debt.
Act Now to Protect Your Income
This migration is a vast logistical operation affecting millions of households across the United Kingdom. With the DWP pushing towards its final completion deadline, the volume of monthly summons remains high.
Experts strongly advise anyone who receives a migration notice to seek independent guidance immediately. Organisations like Citizens Advice can help ensure claimants receive all the financial support they are entitled to during the switch. The key message is clear: do not ignore the letter, act promptly, and get advice to protect your essential monthly income.
