Universal Credit Calculator
Calculate your Universal Credit entitlement using current UK government rates. This calculator uses 2024/25 Universal Credit rates and thresholds.
Children affect work allowance
Important: This is an estimate. Actual Universal Credit entitlement depends on many factors including housing costs, childcare costs, and other circumstances. Always check with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) for accurate calculations.
UK Government Rates: This calculator uses current Universal Credit rates for the 2024/25 tax year. Rates and thresholds may change, so always verify with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) for the most current information.
What is Universal Credit?
Universal Credit is a UK government benefit that provides financial support to people who are on a low income or out of work. It replaces six previous benefits: Income Support, Jobseeker's Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, Housing Benefit, Working Tax Credit, and Child Tax Credit.
Universal Credit is paid monthly and consists of a standard allowance plus any additional elements you may be entitled to, such as housing costs, childcare costs, or additional amounts for children or disabilities.
How to Use the Universal Credit Calculator
- Enter your age: Your age affects your standard allowance rate.
- Select relationship status: Choose single or couple (joint claim).
- Enter monthly earnings: Input your total monthly earnings from work.
- Enter number of children (optional): This affects your work allowance.
- Calculate: Click "Calculate Universal Credit" to see your estimated monthly entitlement.
Universal Credit Rates (2024/25)
Standard Allowance (Monthly)
- • Single, under 25: £311.68
- • Single, 25 or over: £393.45
- • Couple, both under 25: £489.23
- • Couple, both 25 or over: £617.60
Work Allowance (Monthly)
- • With children or limited capability for work: £631
- • Without children: £379
Taper Rate
For every £1 you earn above your work allowance, your Universal Credit is reduced by 55p (55% taper rate).
Examples
Example 1: Single Person, 30, No Earnings
A single person aged 30 with no earnings would receive the standard allowance of £393.45 per month.
Example 2: Single Person, 30, £800/month Earnings, No Children
Standard allowance: £393.45. Work allowance: £379. Earnings above allowance: £421. Taper reduction: £231.55 (55% of £421). Monthly UC: £161.90.
Example 3: Couple, Both 30, £1,200/month Earnings, 2 Children
Standard allowance: £617.60. Work allowance: £631. Earnings above allowance: £569. Taper reduction: £312.95 (55% of £569). Monthly UC: £304.65.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work allowance?
The work allowance is the amount you can earn each month before your Universal Credit starts to be reduced. If you have children or limited capability for work, you get a higher work allowance (£631/month). Otherwise, it's £379/month.
How does the taper rate work?
For every £1 you earn above your work allowance, your Universal Credit is reduced by 55p. This means you keep 45p of every £1 you earn above the work allowance.
Does this calculator include housing costs?
This calculator provides an estimate based on the standard allowance and earnings. It doesn't include housing costs, childcare costs, or other additional elements. For a complete calculation, you should use the official Universal Credit calculator on GOV.UK or contact the DWP.
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