What does an appointee need to do to manage a Universal Credit account?

An appointee will need the login details for the claimant’s Universal Credit Journal or online account, in order to access the available features.

The government introduced it in an attempt to streamline the process of delivering financial support to those who need it. This support typically applies to factors such as living expenses and childcare. The program replaces several existing means-tested benefits and tax credits. This includes Income Support, Housing Benefit and Working Tax Credit, for example.

This effectively means that a person’s eligibility for Universal Credit is determined by their income, savings and other financial circumstances. It primarily provides support to those who have a low income or are out of work.

The government designed Universal Credit to be a digital-first system. This essentially means that most communications relative to the award are done online, or via phone. Claimants should manage their claims and report circumstantial changes through the dedicated online portal.

As with any other benefit, the appointee is then responsible for reporting changes to an individual’s circumstances to the DWP. They are also required to manage a vulnerable person’s Universal Credit with their best interest in mind at all times.

To find out more about managing your appointeeship duties, please download our appointeeship guide.

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Appointeeship, Deputyship, Power of Attorney, Money Management, Welfare Benefits