Is there optimum time to apply for UC-migration letter?

[flutterby1]

Hi, I've had the unwelcome universal credit letter giving me a deadline in mid-May , I'm confused as I've read on here that there are better dates to apply strategically than others regarding your monthly salary date ? I get paid 25th of each month.

Is it to do with the 5 week wait

Is there a best time to apply ?

Thank you

UC is paid monthly in one lump sum with the intention of having the 'look and feel' of a salary. The first payment is one month and one week after you apply.

As regards your salary most people say it's best to avoid the situation where the monthly Assessment Period ends on/close to your salary pay day, Bear in mind that if your notional pay date is 23rd then it could be earlier around Christmas or Easter etc.

If you claim after (say) the 28th, meaning your monthly AP ends on 27th, you should be fine.

@Bromptotoo thanks x

I applied mid way through my pay cycle so now I get paid, get UC two weeks later, the paid again two weeks after that. I also timed it to arrive just before my rent is due so that I know I always have enough in the bank to pay it. My DD were spread through the month as my TC were weekly before, so doing it like this meant I didn’t need to change the dates any DD come out. It also doesn’t clash with pay being paid early. So far it has worked well. The five week wait was a pain, I applied the day I got a TC payment so I had that money to hand for the first week of the five.

Thanks x

Just apply 10 days before or after your pay date so if your pay is ever early or late there is no risk of 2 payments in 1 assessment period. If your tax credits are correct and more than UC you will get transitional protection temporarily which helps.

Hi , I have to apply for UC BEFORE 15th May I get paid on the 25th of each month.

( it does come earlier at Xmas but I may ask my boss to try and pay me as close as possible to Xmas )

I'm getting a tax credit 26th April

( I was thinking of applying 26th/27th April for UC

Will this work out ? To start claim /assessment period 26/27th. Considering my wage comes on 25th and thinking it may be early at Xmas

Thanks xxx so confusing

If you get paid on the 25th do not apply on the 26th/27th!!

Have a google about UC assessment periods and 2 pay days in 1 to try and get your head around it.

Applying on the 14th would be fine. You can get an advance if you will struggle without the tax credits for the first 5 weeks.

Thanks, oh dear I missed this reply so have missed the 14th x

Did you apply at all?