What managed migration is and how it works
DWP is moving all remaining legacy benefit claimants to Universal Credit by rolling out managed migration across different groups. When it is your turn, DWP sends you a migration notice giving you three months to make a UC claim. If you claim UC before the deadline, your tax credits stop and UC starts. If you miss the deadline without claiming, your tax credits also stop but you get no transitional protection.
What happens to your tax credit amount
Tax credits and UC are calculated differently, so most people find their UC award is different from their tax credit amount. For some, UC pays more. For others, there is a gap. The transitional protection element is designed to bridge any shortfall at the point of migration. It is added on top of your UC award so that your total is not less than what you were getting on tax credits at the point of switching.
How transitional protection works
Transitional protection is a top-up paid with your UC. It fills the gap between your expected UC amount and your old tax credit amount at the point of migration. It does not increase; it erodes over time as your UC rises due to cost-of-living upratings. It is not a permanent feature. Major changes to your circumstances, such as moving in with a partner, having a child or a big income change, can reduce or remove transitional protection.
Claiming UC before the deadline: step by step
Read your migration notice carefully for the deadline date. Gather your bank details, national insurance number, rent information, employment details and details of any income and savings. Go to gov.uk/universal-credit and start your claim. Complete the claim fully and attend your first appointment with your work coach. Once UC is awarded, HMRC will end your tax credits.
Housing Benefit and managed migration
Housing Benefit for working-age claimants is also being ended as part of the migration process. When you move to UC, the housing cost element within UC replaces Housing Benefit. The Local Housing Allowance rates and bedroom rules apply in the same way. If you are pension-age, you may continue to receive Housing Benefit separately from UC.
What to do if you are struggling with the switch
Citizens Advice, local welfare rights organisations and many charities offer free help with managed migration. If you have complex circumstances, such as disability, caring responsibilities or self-employment, getting advice before claiming UC is worthwhile. You can also ask DWP for more time if you have a genuine reason. Call the UC migration notice helpline on the number printed on your notice.