Universal Credit and Claimant Commitments during COVID-19

Our colleagues from the Public Law Project have prepared some useful information and resources to help you agree the right claimant commitment for you. There are some helpful leaflets on Universal credit, including how to get the right claimant commitment for you.

What are ‘claimant commitments’

Claimant commitments are conditions which you must meet in order to continue receiving Universal Credit. You will agree a claimant commitment when you meet with your work coach after you apply for Universal Credit.

Claimant commitments outline what is required of you, these conditions are often referred to as ‘work-related requirements’. These can include conditions such as; expected hours of work search and commitment to being available to take up work

It is vital to meet these conditions, as you may be sanctioned if you do not. This can lead to your Universal Credit money being reduced.

Tailored to your situation

Universal Credit changes as things change in your life. Your responsibilities will vary depending on such things as your family, your health and your potential for future earnings. The claimant commitment you agree with your work coach should be tailored to your personal circumstances.

For instance, some people claiming Universal Credit may not be expected to meet any work-related requirements due to an illness or disability.

Your work coach should take into account any of the following issues:

Therefore, it is important to raise with your work coach whether you are affected by any of these issues, so that your work coach can make sure that you are not expected to meet any unrealistic requirements in order for you to receive Universal Credit.

Have claimant commitments been affected by COVID-19?

The information on claimant commitments has been updated due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Public Law Project team have written a short set of FAQs about applying for Universal Credit and signing claimant commitments during this time. The FAQ’s highlight important issues that you may be facing during the crisis.

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