The DWP has outlined Universal Credit support available to families, including childcare reimbursement of up to £1,768 per month and above-inflation benefit increases
The Department for Work and Pensions has delivered a significant announcement for households receiving Universal Credit. Liberal Democrat MP for Newbury, Mr Lee Dillon, raised concerns in the Commons while questioning Sir Stephen Timms.
Mr Dillon wanted “to ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what plans her Department has to help support the financial needs of families, including their (a) eligibility for benefits and (b) access to childcare support”.
Labour Party MP Timms responded: “Universal Credit is designed to be a flexible benefit which offers support for both those in and out of work. It provides an invaluable safety net for millions of customers through the standard allowance and additional elements.
“The government recognises the value of this safety net to millions of people and has therefore legislated for the first ever sustained above-inflation uplift to the UC standard allowance.
“In September we launched the Best Start in Life website for carers and parents, providing information on the government childcare offers available and an eligibility checker.
“Independent, free and anonymous benefit calculators are available to help people check what benefits they may be entitled to. The calculators can be accessed on the Government website.”
According to DWP regulations, if you’re employed or about to start work and are claiming Universal Credit, you can reclaim up to 85% of your childcare costs. The maximum amount you can claim each month is £1,031.88 for one child or £1,768.94 for two or more children, reports Birmingham Live.
When it comes to job hunting and claiming Universal Credit, it largely hinges on whether you’re the main carer and the age of your child. You’ll need to identify a primary carer, or if you’re a single parent, you’ll automatically be recognised as such.
If your youngest child is under one year old, there’s no obligation for you to work.
