Universal Credit

[HelenSmart]

Posted in MM too, but I copied it here for traffic.

I'll try to keep it as brief as I can:

My partner left (domestic violence. People are aware, but I didn't report it yet).

I know I have to claim UC now. Iknow.thebasic procedure. I'd just like a bit of a timeline I guess?

I'm away next week (preplanned) and on the Monday after the Friday I come back, I'm due a tax credits payment. I'll call the DWP on the Monday to get the ball rolling.

What will happen?

A few things:

I get PIP (enhanced both)
I have two DC
I can't find any of their ID, or my PIP award letter. That'll be STBXH hiding things- he has form.

STBXH won't shift his butt to get his wages moved from my account! He'll do it "when he has time". Will they think this is money I've earned?

They accept screenshots of bank statements with child benefit. They just need to see it's paid directly to you. Definitely take birth certificates. You'll need absolutely everything for that first appointment otherwise they can't complete it and delays your claim.

Screenshots sound ideal! In case my PIP letter gets delayed in the mail (I've requested one this morning) would a ss of my PIP being paid into the bank be enough?

Sorry for all the questions.

I have an appointment at the opticians (I'm blind) to get proof from there of my disability. This is for Wednesday, August 14th. If for some reason they want me to go to the Jobcentre on the Tuesday (I'll be calling them on Monday) will they let me pop it in the next day?

So sorry for all the questions.

Incidentally, does anyone know why, on all the benefits calculations, they ask specifically about being registered blind? As opposed to, say, deaf, an amputee etc?

No, you need an appointment for anything at the job centre.

I wouldn't worry about PIP, it's irrelevant to a UC claim.

Bitten the bullet!

I applied online earlier.

I have an appointment at the JC on the Monday after I get back, and they've asked me to take in four pieces of ID, most of which I have, and the other (PIP letter) which should be on the doormat when i get back.

I've also called the council to make them aware of the situation. They're generating a new statement, which I can also use as ID.

Not bad for someone who wouldn't last the week without him, according to him! 😍

Well done! I’m in a similar boat as you with a recent separation and once you get going it’s easier than you think to be independent from them!

Mamamia you got this!