Hundreds of thousands of benefit recipients are being urged to watch for crucial Universal Credit migration notices arriving through their letterboxes.
Failing to respond could result in the complete loss of vital payments.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is ramping up its "managed migration" process, which aims to move everyone from legacy benefits to Universal Credit by 2026.
Those receiving income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) are particularly affected, with a significant acceleration in the transition timeline. ESA provides essential financial support for those unable to work due to illness or disability.
The DWP has already sent 200,000 ESA claimants their migration notices, but a further 400,000 still need to make the switch, with approximately 83,000 letters now being posted each month.
The Government initially planned to transfer all ESA claimants to Universal Credit by the end of 2028. However this deadline has since been brought forward significantly to September 2025 for ESA claimants, with a final completion date of March 2026 for all legacy benefits.
The accelerated timeline means recipients must be vigilant about checking their post
GETTYThe accelerated timeline means recipients must be vigilant about checking their post. Once recipients receive their migration notice, they have a strict three-month deadline to claim Universal Credit.
Missing this deadline has severe consequences - existing benefits will be cut off completely. There is no option to return to legacy benefits once they've been stopped. The switch affects not only ESA but also other legacy benefits.
It's crucial for claimants to understand that once moved to Universal Credit, there's no going back to the previous system.
Even without taking action, benefits will eventually end as the legacy system is phased out. However, delaying beyond the deadline means losing access to important financial protections.
The Government has implemented a "transitional protection" top-up to ensure most people receive the same amount or more when moving to Universal Credit. However, this financial safeguard is only available to those who respond to their Migration Notice before the deadline.
Anyone who claims Universal Credit before receiving an official letter will not qualify for this protection
GETTYAnyone who claims Universal Credit before receiving an official letter will not qualify for this protection. It's advisable to check potential payment amounts before making the switch.
Free online benefits calculators from organisations like EntitledTo or Turn2Us can help claimants compare figures. Those with partners over State Pension age face slightly different rules and should seek guidance before proceeding.
The scale of those failing to respond to migration notices is alarming. Between July 2022 and December 2024, the DWP sent almost 1.6 million migration notices. According to the latest figures, 355,940 individuals have already lost their benefits after failing to act on these notices.
This represents a significant number of vulnerable people potentially left without financial support.
Meanwhile, 1.1 million individuals have successfully claimed Universal Credit, with another 174,576 still in the process of transitioning. These statistics highlight the critical importance of responding promptly to migration notices.
Applying for Universal Credit can be done online, and applicants will need several important documents ready. These include proof of identity, bank account details, and housing information. Claimants should also have information about their income, savings, and any existing benefits.
The application process has been streamlined, but gathering all necessary documentation beforehand can make it significantly easier. Those who have received a migration notice should prioritise their application to avoid disruption to payments.
The online system guides applicants through each step of the process. Paper applications may be available for those without internet access. Support is available for those unsure about the migration process.
Citizens Advice offers a free and confidential Help to Claim service specifically designed to assist with Universal Credit applications.
With hundreds of thousands still needing to make the switch, support services are preparing for increased demand
PAThis service can provide guidance on completing forms and understanding what the change means for individual circumstances. The DWP website also contains detailed information about Universal Credit.
Given the significant consequences of missing migration deadlines, seeking advice early is strongly recommended.
With hundreds of thousands still needing to make the switch, support services are preparing for increased demand.
Acting promptly on migration notices is the safest way to ensure continued financial support.
