Universal Credit claimants could top up DWP sum by up to £1,600

Those who claim Universal Credit may be able to top up their benefit by up to £1,600. Universal credit provides support to people who are out of work, unable to work or are on low income.

Currently, the benefit is split into a standard allowance, and then other top ups which a person receives according to circumstances. The standard allowance for a single person under 25 is £265.31 monthly, rising to £334.91 for singletons over 25.

Joint claimants who are both under 25 should get £416.45 per month to share between them while couples where one or more partner is over 25 will get a standard allowance of £525.72 monthly. However, there are several top ups available which could help Universal Credit claimants further.

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Looking into these could be worthwhile and it would ensure Brits are claiming the full support they're entitled to. But how do you know what top ups there are and if you are eligible?

Firstly, Universal Credit claimants who have children could get up to £290 extra per month. The £290 figure is for a first child born before April 6, 2017, with the sum dropping to £244.58 for those born after that date, reports the Express.

For a second or subsequent child, the sum is £244.58 per month per child. Individuals who have a disabled child will get further support for additional needs, with £132.89 provided. An extra £414.88 is given for 'severely' disabled children.

Certain individuals may not be able to work for health related reasons, and may be deemed by the DWP as having limited capability for work or work-related activity. In these circumstances, individuals should get an additional £354.28 per month to support them.

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