Migration from tax credits to UC

[loujane2]

I've received a reminder, telling me I need to apply to switch over from TC to UC by 27th Jan 2024.
I'm trying to delay this as long as possible, at least until the end of Dec because I've heard horror stories about claimants being left without any payments for 4 or 5 weeks during the migration process.
I earn well above the threshold to qualify for any loans/hardship payments etc but I still have no spare cash at the end of each month and no savings.... So, just trying to time my migration to take place after Christmas not before it.
How long are claimants left without payments? Just trying to prepare myself and budget accordingly. Thanks :)

If your only current benefits are Tax Credits then those will stop as soon as you claim UC.

The wait of 5 weeks is 'baked in' as you're moving from weekly pay to monthly. If you apply for UC on (say) 8th January then your first monthly Assessment Period will end on 7th Feb with payment made on or about 14th Feb. Most people get the first payment on time. The exceptions are where people have problems such as proving ID etc.

I'm not sure I understand what you mean about being over the threshold for loans etc. Most new applicants I've encountered can get get a new claim advance. It's repayable but you can ask for up to 24months to repay:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/universal-credit-advances

Keep us posted.