Partner and I considering moving in together, what happens to her benefits?

[AnEnglishFellow]

I am a full time worker (40 hours a week) but only on minimum wage, bringing in £1,250 or so a month after tax, so I don't bring home a huge amount of money.
My other half is actively looking for work and currently living with her parents. She gets Universal Credit minus the housing element (so about £300 or so a month?).

What would happen to her benefits eligibility if we moved in together? While I think the money I earn should be okay to support us both, just about, I'd love to get some insight if anyone's had any experience in this regard.

Depends if either of you have children?

£1250 per month is plenty enough for you both to live on until she finds work, which really shouldn't be too difficult given the current record low levels of unemployment.

It must give you a real sense of pride and achievement knowing that you can financially support your relationship without having to rely on tax payer support.

UC is based on household income so when you become a “household” you will need to make a joint application based on your joint situation. Use an online calculator to assess what you might be entitled to based on your situation and income.

Any means tested she will lose, I assume!

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It is unlikely you would get any benefits, but it depends on how much your rent is. You might get some council tax benefit.

Surely it makes sense to wait until your partner has a job and can pay her way before moving in together?

I think you'd get some housing benefit, but it depends on what your rent is, OP.

Surely you'd feel more secure waiting until she can pay her way too?

Wait until she’s got a job .