03.10.13
Universal Credit will need claimants to be ‘savvier’
The Payments Council has warned that Universal Credit (UC) being paid monthly instead of fortnightly could cause 2.7 million people to struggle.
A survey of present claimants found that many are worried about getting into debt or paying bills on time. UC will replace six different benefits over the next four years, and is currently being piloted in Ashton-under-Lyne, Wigan, Warrington and Oldham.
Adrian Kamellard, chief executive of the Payments Council, said: “The introduction of Universal Credit means that people will have to be savvier about managing their money and will have to plan for the whole month instead of budgeting on a weekly basis.”
But the DWP said getting paid monthly would allow people to access better financial deals on shopping and energy and that those who really need fortnightly payments will still be able to get them.
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Image c. 401(K) 2012