Universal credit claim.. checks ?

[LD233]

Hi so I'm about to apply for universal credit for the first time. I'm a single mom with a 7 month old baby. My wage has decreased and I'm on statutory maternity pay. I am due to go back to work part time 3 days a week from July and my son is going into nursery 3 days a week ( have no idea how I'm going to afford it ) with no financial help from the dad.
I think if on UC you get help

I have 6k in savings but that is for needs must such as car repairs , new household items fridge freezer etc money that I need saved for the future.

I had more in savings last year however owed some money out so it has gone down and paid that off last year.

Just asking what checks universal credit do? Will I be eligible with 6k savings ? Will they ask for bank statements etc. What else will they need - I am going to apply shortly.
I am mainly worried about finances going forward and how expensive nursery is on a part time wage!

Never claimed benefits before so it's the first time and I'm 29 years old.

You’ll be fine with £6k savings. If it’s more than £6k, you’ll have a small deduction per every £250 over £6k, about £5 I think. You will have to declare what you’ve got in all accounts; including PayPal and the like, and they may ask for bank statements. They also have the ability to verify this directly with the banks at any time. You update UC as your savings change, whether that’s up or down.

You’ll need proof of identity, address, costs and income. They may ask for this during the process, or afterwards. You’ll be able to apply for an advance once your elements start to be verified, but this is a loan that is paid back from your later payments.

You can get help with nursery fees on UC - up to 85% of your costs. It’ll only cover nursery fees while you’re working (so if you work 12 hours, they won’t pay for 30. You could argue for 14 if you’ve got a commute), and it’s not a protected element so it can be reduced by your income or savings, but you may get some help.

Ya it’s £4.35 for every £250 or part of £250 over the £6000 up to £16,000.

so £251 means 2x 4.35 a month off your claim (bonkers as who pays that interest) soon as savings go under £6000 you update and let them know.

Thanks @Akire!

Savings under 6k are not taken into account. If you go over that as pp mentioned there is a small deduction and you would need to report your savings at the end of each monthly assessment period. They will pay up to 85% of childcare costs as an extra element but the whole claim is then reduced by earnings over a certain amount depending whether you rent or have a mortgage.

Thanks everyone will apply ASAP.