The warning comes as the Government continues to transition around two million people on legacy benefits to Universal Credit by the end of March 2025.
Legacy benefits, including tax credits, housing benefit, Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) and income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), are being phased out and replaced with Universal Credit.
Tax credits are closing in April 2025 and customers must respond to their migration notices to continue receiving their cash.
People don’t need to take action until they receive their migration notice letter from the DWP. They then have three months from the date on their migration notice to apply for Universal Credit.
Stephen Timms, minister for social security and disability, said: “Having three months to make a move may feel like a long time, but life can often distract you elsewhere. For the best chance to secure your benefit entitlement, don’t delay with responding to your migration notice.
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“We are committed to ensuring a smooth transition and customers will have the full support of DWP staff to help manage this change.”
Other benefits claimants who can expect migration notices in the coming months include those claiming income-based JSA, ESA only and ESA with housing benefit.
Related: Over 1.5 million kids miss out on Universal Credit payments due to two-child limit
