The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has officially confirmed a major Universal Credit reform set to roll out in April 2026.
These six changes are aimed at modernizing the benefits framework, improving work incentives, and reshaping support for individuals with health-related barriers to employment.
This update is part of a broader government strategy to wind down legacy benefits and transition claimants into a more streamlined, “pro-work” Universal Credit system.
With over a million people expected to be impacted, it is crucial to understand the upcoming policy shifts.
6 Key Universal Credit Changes from April 2026
The following table outlines the major updates and how they will affect claimants:
| Change | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Increased Standard Allowance | All claimants—new and existing—will see a monthly boost to their basic Universal Credit rates. |
| 2. LCWRA Freeze for Existing Claimants | The £97/week Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity (LCWRA) payment will remain flat until 2029/30. |
| 3. Reduced LCWRA for New Claimants | New applicants will receive only £50/week for LCWRA; those under age 22 won’t be eligible. |
| 4. Work Trial Protection | LCWRA recipients can try employment without losing their health top-up or triggering reassessment. |
| 5. New Severe Condition Premium | Claimants with serious, lifelong medical conditions will qualify for a new top-up premium. |
| 6. Enhanced Jobcentre Support | New claimants will get tailored guidance, skills development, and access to generous work allowances. |
How Will It Affect Existing vs. New Claimants?
Existing Claimants:
- Receive increased standard allowance.
- Keep their current LCWRA rate frozen until 2029.
- Benefit from work trial protections.
- May qualify for transitional protection if moving from legacy benefits.
New Claimants After April 2026:
- Receive a higher base payment, but reduced LCWRA support (£50/week).
- Must be age 22 or older to qualify for LCWRA.
- Will gain extra support from jobcentre work coaches, with focus on employability and training.
- Eligible for severe condition premium if applicable.
The Transition to Universal Credit: What’s Next?
The move from legacy benefits to Universal Credit has been underway since 2013 and is entering its final phase.
- By March 2026, six legacy benefits will end: ESA, Housing Benefit, Income Support, Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and Jobseeker’s Allowance.
- Managed migration letters were sent from mid-2024, and recipients must respond to avoid losing support.
- Those migrating voluntarily are not entitled to transitional protection, unlike those in managed migration.
This effort is designed to streamline welfare while offering claimants financial safeguards during the switchover.
Transitional Protection and Financial Safeguards
To cushion income drops during the transition:
- Transitional protection will top up payments for eligible claimants moving through the managed migration process.
- This protection gradually reduces with changes in income, employment, or family structure.
- Claimants who miss migration deadlines or move voluntarily will not be protected.
Particular attention is needed for vulnerable groups such as ESA recipients and those with limited digital access, who may face challenges adapting to the online Universal Credit platform.
The Universal Credit changes from April 2026 represent one of the most significant updates to the UK’s welfare system in over a decade.
While some claimants will benefit from higher allowances and new premiums, others—especially new applicants—will see reductions in LCWRA support.
It’s essential for both current and prospective claimants to prepare for these reforms, understand their eligibility, and respond promptly to transition notifications to avoid disruption in benefit payments.
FAQs
Will current Universal Credit claimants lose their LCWRA payments in 2026?
No. Existing claimants will retain the £97/week LCWRA, but it will be frozen until at least 2029.
How much will new LCWRA claimants receive after April 2026?
They will receive £50 per week, and individuals under age 22 will not qualify for LCWRA support.
Who qualifies for the new severe condition premium?
Claimants with lifelong, serious medical conditions will be eligible, subject to medical assessment and DWP criteria.