Can I claim Universal Credit if I live with my partner?

Claiming Universal Credit as a Couple

Couples living in the same household and meeting specific criteria can claim Universal Credit jointly. To be eligible, both partners must:

• Reside in England, Scotland, or Wales
• Share the same address
• Be married, in a civil partnership, or cohabiting
• Not be in full-time advanced education (exceptions apply)
• Have joint savings and capital under £16,000
• Be 18 years old or over (or 16 or over in specific circumstances)

Joint Claim Process

To make a joint claim, each partner creates an online Universal Credit account. The first partner to register receives a partner code, which the second partner must input to join the accounts. This ensures a joint claim and accurate assessment of eligibility.

Partner’s Income and Savings

When claiming Universal Credit as a couple, the income and savings of both partners are considered. This affects the amount of support received.

State Pension Age

If only one partner has reached State Pension age, the couple can still claim Universal Credit. However, the claim will cease when both partners reach State Pension age.

Benefits Replaced

Any benefits being replaced by Universal Credit, such as tax credits, will stop when a joint claim is made. The Tax Credit Office must be notified of the Universal Credit claim.

Sources

• Universal Credit: Eligibility
• Universal Credit: Further Information for Couples
• Check if you can get Universal Credit

FAQs

Can I claim Universal Credit if I live with my partner?

Yes, you can claim Universal Credit as a couple if you meet the eligibility criteria, which includes living in the same household and being married, in a civil partnership, or cohabiting.

How do we make a joint claim for Universal Credit?

To make a joint claim, each partner must create an online Universal Credit account. The first partner to register will receive a partner code, which the second partner must input to join the accounts.

Will my partner’s income and savings affect my Universal Credit claim?

Yes, when claiming Universal Credit as a couple, the income and savings of both partners are considered. This will affect the amount of support you receive.

What happens if only one of us has reached State Pension age?

If only one partner has reached State Pension age, you can still claim Universal Credit as a couple. However, your Universal Credit claim will stop when both of you reach State Pension age.

What benefits will be replaced by Universal Credit?

Any benefits that are being replaced by Universal Credit, such as tax credits, will stop when you make a joint claim. You must notify the relevant agency, such as the Tax Credit Office, of your Universal Credit claim.

What if my partner is not eligible for Universal Credit?

If your partner is not eligible for Universal Credit, you can still make a joint claim. However, their income and savings will still be taken into account when determining your eligibility and the amount of support you receive.

Can I claim Universal Credit if I am 16 or 17 years old?

You may be able to claim Universal Credit if you are 16 or 17 years old and meet certain criteria, such as having a child, being disabled or ill, or being responsible for caring for a severely disabled person.

What if I have lived outside the UK?

You will need to provide evidence that the UK, Ireland, Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man is your main home (known as being “habitually resident”) to claim Universal Credit. This applies even if you are a British citizen.