Universal Credit – upcoming changes in April 2026

Faithworks CMA (Community Money Advice) team are regulated and authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority – the team are here to help, inform and empower you in managing your money with confidence.

In April changes will come into effect with regards Universal Credit (UC). These changes are the result of the Universal Credit Act 2025 and the November 2025 budget*.

Key changes include:

• The amount of UC you get will change – this is because the ‘standard allowance’ is increasing.
• Removal of the two-child limit so that families can receive the child element of UC for all children regardless of family size.
• You might also be affected by the April 2026 changes if you get an additional amount because you have a long-term health condition or a disability. This payment is called the ‘limited capability for work-related activity’ (LCWRA) element. The amount is decreasing for most people who apply for the LCWRA element on or after 6 April 2026.
  You should report your condition or disability and ask for a health assessment as soon as possible. If you do this before 6 April and the DWP later say you have LCWRA, you’ll get the higher amount.

For more information, see Citizens Advice website below:

If you need help with your universal credit, you can call Citizens Advice BCP Help to Claim advice line on 0800 144 8 444.

For more information on benefits generally, see Citizens Advice website below:

If you are worried about managing your Universal Credit payments, our Financial Resilience project provides advice through the Money Course, as well as practical tips on budgeting and help with organising your bills and spending.

Get back in control of your money at one of our free, friendly workshops, hosted at Faithworks’ Foodbanks – simply speak to the team at one of our Foodbanks in Poole, Christchurch, Wimborne or Blandford or email hello@faith-works.org.uk to register your interest.

*Source: Citizens Advice website