Universal Credit Overview

Universal Credit (UC) is the main means tested benefit for people of working age, whether you are in or out of work. This course looks at who should claim UC, how much should be awarded, how to manage the claim, and what claimants have to do to avoid problems with sanctions. 

Part 1: UC eligibility / Maximum UC 

Aims
This part of the course covers the main eligibility rules for Universal Credit and explains how awards are calculated. Participants will explore the key rules on age, capital, students, and people from abroad, before moving on to the structure of a UC award and how the maximum amount is worked out.

Learning Outcomes
By the end of Part 1, the course participants will be able to:

  • Identify the main age rules for Universal Credit, including where special rules apply to younger and older claimants.
  • Explain the capital limits for Universal Credit and recognise when capital may be disregarded.
  • Recognise the main student restrictions in Universal Credit.
  • Recognise when entitlement may be affected by a claimant’s immigration status or residence position, and when further advice is needed.
  • Outline the process used to calculate a Universal Credit award.
  • Identify the elements that can be included in a UC award and explain how the maximum amount is calculated.
  • Recognise when certain elements cannot be paid together in the same award.

Part 2: The treatment of income / Work requirements & sanctions 

Aims
This part of the course looks at how income affects a Universal Credit award, how to complete the calculation, and how the UC claims process works. It also covers work-related requirements in UC and what claimants need to do to avoid problems caused by sanctions.

Learning Outcomes
By the end of Part 2, participants will be able to:

  • Understand how different forms of income affect a UC award.
  • Be able to use online tools to calculate UC and anticipate the make-up of an award.
  • Understand the key stages involved in making an online claim to UC.
  • Understand how the four work-related requirement groups operate in UC.
  • Be able to identify practical steps that may help reduce the risk of a sanction decision being made.

Methods of delivery
Both parts of this course are delivered online live with a Benefits Training Co. trainer. It is a practical course delivered using a combination of trainer presentation, exercises and case studies, group discussion and games. Participants will be provided with e-learning supporting material including PowerPoint slides and a comprehensive training pack .

Intended audience
This course is for participants  working with working age people. No previous experience is required although a working knowledge of the wider benefits system is helpful. 

Certificates & post course support
Participants will receive an e-certificate for completing both Parts 1&2 (6 hours) of any complete BTC course. This also guarantees eligibility to access our free 12 months post-course advice service (including priority entry to free webinars).

Course instructions
This online course is run over Zoom. In the week before the course, you will receive an email with Zoom link(s) and access the supporting materials. You will need to download (or print) the pack (and slides, if you wish) before each part of the course, unless you have selected a printed pack when booking.

Participants will need a good wifi connection and a suitable computer/laptop to access both the Zoom session and the pack throughout. You may wish to use a separate device for the pack (or split your screen) if you cannot or do not wish to print. We recommend participants log in a few minutes beforehand. You may also wish to have a pen and paper handy to make notes.