The UK government is officially ending four major legacy benefits: Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, Income Support, and Income-Based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA).
More than 500,000 households will be impacted, with all recipients required to move to Universal Credit by the end of the 2025–26 financial year.
If you’re currently receiving any of these benefits, it’s crucial to know the upcoming changes and take the necessary steps to avoid any disruption in your support.
Cancelled
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is implementing this major change to simplify the welfare system. The plan is to replace multiple benefits with a single monthly payment through Universal Credit.
This shift is expected to cut down on administrative complexity, reduce fraud, and improve efficiency.
Although the move is intended to streamline support, it presents new challenges—particularly for vulnerable individuals and families unfamiliar with the digital application process.
Reasons
Universal Credit is designed to consolidate six different benefits into one, including the four being cancelled. The government believes this approach will modernise welfare delivery.
However, there has been criticism about how this migration is being handled, with many concerned about accessibility and support for those who struggle with technology or need extra guidance.
Timeline
The migration to Universal Credit will happen in phases starting in early 2025. From March 2025, recipients of Income-Based Jobseeker’s Allowance will begin receiving migration notices.
In April, people on Income Support and those receiving both Tax Credits and Housing Benefit will be contacted. By June, Housing Benefit-only claimants will start the transition, followed by ESA claimants who also receive Child Tax Credit in July.
Once you receive your Migration Notice Letter, you will have three months to apply for Universal Credit. Failure to do so will result in the termination of your current benefits.
Affected
The groups most likely to feel the impact of this change include low-income working families, single parents, unemployed individuals, people with disabilities, and pensioners receiving tax credits.
These populations often depend on a consistent and predictable benefit payment to manage everyday expenses. Delays, missed applications, or miscommunication during the migration could lead to financial strain, making early preparation essential.
PIP
Alongside the legacy benefit migration, significant changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) are also on the horizon. These reforms will be introduced in November 2026. One major update is that claimants will now need to score at least four points in a daily living activity to qualify for the daily living component.
Additionally, over 87 health conditions, including fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and certain mental health disorders, may no longer grant automatic eligibility.
Only individuals with severe and long-term conditions—such as advanced multiple sclerosis or motor neurone disease—are likely to continue receiving benefits without reassessment.
Disability organisations are encouraging claimants to prepare early by updating medical records and knowing the new criteria.
Steps
If you are currently receiving one of the benefits being phased out, here’s what you should do. First, watch out for your Migration Notice from the DWP.
This letter will inform you that it’s time to switch to Universal Credit, and you’ll be given three months to complete your application. Apply as soon as you receive the notice to avoid any payment interruption. You can apply online through the official Universal Credit portal.
For assistance, organisations like Citizens Advice and Turn2Us offer free support to help you complete the application, check your eligibility, and appeal any incorrect decisions. If you’re disabled or a carer, be aware that you may be entitled to additional elements under Universal Credit.
For example, the Limited Capability for Work-Related Activity (LCWRA) component could add an extra £390.06 per month to your payment. Lastly, if you receive PIP or expect to apply, stay updated about the changes coming in 2026 and prepare your documentation in advance.
Experts
Experts are already raising alarms about the potential impact of these reforms. The Resolution Foundation has warned that nearly one in three households could face payment delays or underpayments during the migration.
Disability Rights UK and other advocacy groups are pushing the government to offer more transitional support for people affected by stricter PIP rules.
According to reports from The Guardian, policy analysts believe the new criteria could leave many people “invisible” to the system, without adequate support.
In summary, the cancellation of four key benefits and the migration to Universal Credit is a significant shift in the UK’s welfare system. While it aims to modernise and simplify support, the transition could be difficult for many.
Staying informed, acting quickly, and seeking expert guidance are essential to avoid being left without financial help. Prepare now, and you’ll be better positioned to manage the changes ahead.
FAQs
Which benefits are being cancelled?
Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, Income Support, and Income-Based JSA.
When is the migration deadline?
By the end of the 2025–26 financial year.
What if I don’t apply for Universal Credit?
Your existing benefit payments will stop after three months.
How is PIP changing in 2026?
Eligibility will be stricter with higher point thresholds and fewer qualifying conditions.
Where can I get help applying?
You can contact Citizens Advice, Turn2Us, or visit the Universal Credit website.
