Story perspectives

DWP Extends Benefits Deadline Amid Universal Credit Transition

4/1/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) extended the deadline for some benefit claimants to switch to Universal Credit.
The DWP said Employment and Support Allowance and Housing Benefit will remain available until summer 2026.
A report warned of hardship during the transition.
As of December 2025, Universal Credit claimants reached 8.34 million, largely from legacy-benefits transfers.
Upcoming changes to Universal Credit are expected to save nearly £1 billion.

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Story summary

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) extended the deadline for some benefit claimants to switch to Universal Credit.
The DWP said Employment and Support Allowance and Housing Benefit will remain available until summer 2026.
A report warned of hardship during the transition.
As of December 2025, Universal Credit claimants reached 8.34 million, largely from legacy-benefits transfers.
Upcoming changes to Universal Credit are expected to save nearly £1 billion.