The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has released fresh guidelines on how to apply for Universal Credit if you have dependent children.
On a new section of the GOV.UK website, the additional support available to those responsible for child care is detailed. If you had your first child before April 6, 2017, you could be eligible for an extra £339 per month in Universal Credit.
For first children born on or after April 6, 2017, or for families with a second child, the additional amount is £292.81. Typically, no additional payments are made for a third or subsequent child, except in specific cases, such as receiving extra support for one child if you have twins.
Any supplementary funds received will continue until August 31 following the child’s 16th birthday. Payments can extend until the child reaches 19 if they are engaged in full-time education or approved training.
An increased monthly allowance may be granted if any of your children have disabilities, irrespective of the number of children in your care.
The disabled child addition comes in two rates: £158.76 at a lower level and £423.27 at a higher level. When it comes to employment and Universal Credit claims, the decision hinges on whether you are the primary caregiver and the age of your youngest child.
You must designate a primary caregiver, or if you are a single parent, you are automatically considered the primary caregiver. While there is no obligation to work when your youngest child is under one year old, by the time they turn 3, you are generally expected to start working or preparing for it.
If you are not the primary caregiver and not employed full-time, you are usually expected to seek full-time employment.
The GOV.UK page also outlines the process for reclaiming up to 85% of your childcare expenses if you are working or about to start working while receiving Universal Credit.
The maximum monthly reimbursement is £1,031.88 for one child and £1,768.94 for two or more children. Eligible childcare providers include nurseries, preschools, after-school clubs, breakfast clubs, childminders, nannies, and school holiday clubs.
Childcare claims must be submitted through your Universal Credit account, allowing for up to three months of retroactive childcare claims.
It is advisable to report your childcare expenses promptly after payment, as delays beyond two months may result in non-reimbursement.
Advance claims for up to three months of future childcare are also accepted, but reimbursement is contingent upon the delivery of childcare services.