The Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced that certain benefits are ending and will be replaced by Universal Credit.
The benefits being replaced include working tax credit, child tax credit, income support, income-based jobseeker’s allowance (JSA), income-related employment and support allowance (ESA), and housing benefit, unless you are in supported or temporary accommodation.
Migration notices are being sent through the post to inform people of this change.
To ensure continued receipt of entitled money, residents are required to claim Universal Credit by the deadline indicated on their migration notice.
Mike Robinson from Citizens Advice in Darlington said: “It is important that you open and read all letters that you receive so you don’t miss your migration notice and lose out.
“If you receive a letter and need help to understand it or to make a claim, please contact our benefit entitlement action team (BEAT) as soon as possible.
“When you claim may make a difference to how much you receive.
“Whether or not you have received your migration letter, we can help you make sure you are claiming all the benefits you are entitled to now, and you can continue to get at least the same amount when you transfer.
“Single People or families who have long-term health problems may want to check with us first.
“You can email the team on beat@citizensadvicedrc.org.uk, leave an answering machine message on 01325 734999 or call in to our Church Row offices.”
Jim Garner, cabinet member for stronger communities at Darlington Borough Council, said: “It is so important people open their post and make sure they don’t accidentally throw these letters away.
Most read:
Get more local stories, reviews and exclusive content from The Northern Echo and join our growing digital family with a subscription.
“Official letters can sometimes be confusing, but help is available, so please do not ignore your post.
“We should all check with friends and relatives who receive benefits too, so they keep an eye out for their letter and don’t miss the deadline.”
For more information, help, and support, people are advised to contact Darlington Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB).