How Much Does a Couple Get on Universal Credit?
Universal Credit is a vital financial support system for couples and individuals in the UK, designed to streamline benefits and provide consistent support for those in need.
If you and your partner are exploring your eligibility or wondering how much you can receive as a couple, this guide will give you the clarity you need.
This blog explains the Universal Credit payment rates for couples, the factors that influence these payments, and the additional elements you may be entitled to.
By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how Universal Credit works for couples and how to calculate your potential payment.
How Much is the Universal Credit Payment Rates for Couples?
Universal Credit provides financial support to couples based on their combined circumstances, such as age, employment status, and overall financial situation.
The payment rates for couples differ from those for single claimants, and there are also distinctions based on the age of the partners.
If you and your partner are making a claim as a couple, it’s essential to understand the current payment rates and how they apply to you. This section breaks down the rates in detail, showing you exactly how much you can expect to receive under different scenarios.
How Much is the Payment Rates for Couples Under 25?
Couples where both partners are under 25 receive a lower payment rate compared to older claimants. The current monthly standard allowance for couples under 25 is: £489.23 (combined payment for both partners)
This rate reflects the government’s aim to encourage younger claimants to seek employment or education opportunities. Since Universal Credit is intended as a means of financial support, younger claimants receive a lower rate compared to older claimants.
Example Scenario:
Emma (aged 22) and Ryan (aged 23) live together and have just applied for Universal Credit. Since they are both under 25, they will receive a combined standard allowance of £489.23 per month.
This amount will not change unless one of them turns 25 or if they have children or other qualifying circumstances.
Why is the Rate Lower for Under-25s?
The UK government applies a lower rate for younger couples as part of a policy that aims to encourage younger individuals to engage in work or training. While this policy has been debated, it remains a key feature of Universal Credit payment rates.
How Much is the Payment Rates for Couples Aged 25 and Over?
If both partners are aged 25 or over, the couple qualifies for a higher payment rate. The current monthly standard allowance for couples aged 25 and over is: £617.60 (combined payment for both partners)
This increase reflects the higher cost of living that older claimants typically face. The government recognizes that older couples often have more financial responsibilities, so they receive a higher payment than younger couples.
Example Scenario:
James (aged 30) and Olivia (aged 27) live together and apply for Universal Credit. Since they are both over 25, they qualify for the higher rate. As a result, they receive £617.60 per month as a combined payment.
Why is the Rate Higher for Over-25s?
The government provides more financial support to older claimants because they are less likely to be in full-time education and more likely to have financial responsibilities, such as rent, utility bills, and dependent children. This is why the payment rate increases when either partner turns 25.
If You Live with Your Partner and Either of You Are 25 or Over
If at least one partner is 25 or older, the couple qualifies for the higher payment rate. The current monthly standard allowance for this situation is: £617.60 (combined payment for both partners)
Unlike the previous sections, where both partners are under 25 or over 25, this scenario applies when one partner is under 25 and the other is 25 or older.
The government recognizes the increased financial responsibilities of the older partner, which is why this situation qualifies for the higher payment.
Example Scenario:
Tom (aged 26) and Sarah (aged 23) live together as a couple and apply for Universal Credit. Even though Sarah is under 25, Tom is over 25. Because of this, they qualify for the higher payment rate of £617.60 per month.
Why is the Rate Higher if One Partner is 25 or Over?
The UK welfare system prioritizes the financial needs of households, not individuals. Since one partner is aged 25 or over, the household is seen as having greater financial needs, regardless of the other partner’s age.
This policy ensures that households with at least one older claimant receive higher support.
If You Live with Your Partner and You’re Both Under 25
If both partners are under 25, the couple qualifies for a lower payment rate. The current monthly standard allowance in this situation is: £489.23 (combined payment for both partners)
This is the same rate as discussed earlier for couples where both partners are under 25. Since younger claimants are presumed to have fewer financial responsibilities, they receive less financial support than older claimants.
Example Scenario:
David (aged 24) and Mia (aged 22) live together and apply for Universal Credit. Since both are under 25, they qualify for the lower payment rate. Their combined monthly standard allowance will be £489.23.
Why Do Both Partners Need to Be Under 25 for the Lower Rate?
If one partner turns 25, the couple qualifies for the higher payment rate. This policy ensures that younger claimants have an incentive to work or train, while older claimants receive higher payments to reflect greater financial responsibility.
Summary of Payment Rates for Couples
Here’s a table summarizing the Universal Credit payment rates for couples based on their age and circumstances:
| Age of Couple | Monthly Standard Allowance |
| Both partners under 25 | £489.23 (combined) |
| Both partners 25 or over | £617.60 (combined) |
| One partner 25 or over, one under 25 | £617.60 (combined) |
What Affects Universal Credit Payment Rates?
There are several factors that influence how much Universal Credit a couple can receive. While the monthly standard allowance is a fixed starting point, other elements can increase or decrease the amount a couple is entitled to.
Additional Elements
In addition to the standard allowance, you may receive extra payments for:
- Housing costs (rent, mortgage interest, etc.)
- Child element (for each child in your household)
- Carer’s element (if you care for someone for 35+ hours a week)
- Disability element (for partners with health issues or disabilities)
Earnings and Work Status
If you or your partner work, your earnings affect your Universal Credit payment. For every £1 you earn, your payment is reduced by 55p under the earnings taper rate.
Benefit Cap
There is a limit on the total amount of benefits a couple can receive. This is called the benefit cap, and it applies if you receive a large number of additional elements (like child support or housing payments).
Current Cap Amounts (as of 2024):
- £1,666.67 per month (outside London)
- £1,916.67 per month (inside London)
Savings and Assets
If you and your partner have combined savings over £6,000, your Universal Credit payments will be reduced. If your savings exceed £16,000, you will no longer be eligible to receive Universal Credit.
Additional Elements of Universal Credit for Couples
In addition to the standard monthly allowance, couples may qualify for additional payments known as “elements.” These elements provide extra financial support based on specific circumstances.
Housing Costs Support
If you and your partner rent or have a mortgage, you may be eligible for housing support as part of your Universal Credit claim.
What it Covers:
- Rent payments (for council, housing association, or private rentals)
- Mortgage interest payments (but not mortgage repayments)
How it Works:
The amount depends on your housing situation and the number of people in your household. For renters, the Local Housing Allowance (LHA) affects how much you receive.
Example:
Jack and Chloe rent a 2-bedroom flat for £750 per month. If the Local Housing Allowance for their area is £700, Universal Credit will only cover up to £700 of their rent.
Child Element
If you have children, you can receive a child element on top of your standard allowance.
How it Works:
- You can claim for up to 2 children (unless exceptions apply).
- The payment is higher for a first child born before April 2017.
Example:
Alice and Mark have 2 children. They receive their standard allowance plus £315 for their first child and £269 for the second child.
Carer’s Element
If you or your partner provides care for someone with a severe health condition or disability, you may qualify for the Carer’s Element.
How it Works:
- You must provide care for at least 35 hours per week.
- This element does not affect the carer’s ability to receive Carer’s Allowance.
Disability Element
If either partner has a disability, they may qualify for an additional payment.
How it Works:
- Eligibility depends on whether the individual has a limited capability for work.
- Payments are added on top of the Universal Credit standard allowance.
Key Factors Affecting Universal Credit Payments for Couples
Work and Earnings
Universal Credit is designed to encourage work. The more you earn, the less Universal Credit you receive.
Earnings Taper Rate:
- For every £1 earned, your Universal Credit payment reduces by 55p.
Benefit Cap
There is a limit to the total benefits you can receive as a couple.
Cap Amounts:
- Outside London: £1,666.67 per month
- Inside London: £1,916.67 per month
Savings and Assets
Your household savings and assets can affect your Universal Credit claim.
How it Works:
- If your savings exceed £6,000, your payments are reduced.
- If your savings exceed £16,000, you are no longer eligible for Universal Credit.
How to Apply for Universal Credit as a Couple?
Applying for Universal Credit as a couple involves a straightforward online process. Unlike individual claims, couples must submit a joint claim since Universal Credit treats both partners as a single financial unit. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply:
- Create Universal Credit Accounts: Both partners must create separate Universal Credit accounts on the UK website. These accounts are then linked to process the joint claim.
- Provide Personal Information: You’ll need to submit details like your National Insurance numbers, bank account details, housing information (rent or mortgage), and proof of identity (passport, driving license, etc.).
- Submit Employment and Income Details: Both partners must report income, wages, and savings to determine eligibility and payment amounts.
- Attend a Joint Interview: Both partners must attend a phone or in-person interview with a work coach at the Jobcentre.
- Track Payment Dates: Payments are made monthly, with the first payment arriving after 5 weeks. If needed, you can request an advance payment to cover essential expenses.
How Often Do Couples Get Paid Universal Credit?
Couples receive Universal Credit once a month in a single combined payment. The payment is made directly into a nominated bank account shared by both partners.
The first payment takes around five weeks from the date of the claim, which includes a one-month assessment period and an additional 7-day processing time. If needed, couples can request an advance payment to cover essential living expenses during this waiting period.
Conclusion
Universal Credit payments for couples depend on their age, living situation, and personal circumstances. If you or your partner are over 25, you’ll receive a higher allowance than younger couples. Additional support is also available for housing, children, and disabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can both partners in a couple claim Universal Credit separately?
No, couples must make a joint claim for Universal Credit.
What happens if one partner is working and the other isn’t?
If one partner works, their earnings affect the joint payment. The earnings taper rate applies.
How do savings affect a couple’s Universal Credit payment?
Savings over £6,000 reduce your payment. Savings over £16,000 make you ineligible.
How long does it take to receive the first Universal Credit payment?
It takes 5 weeks to receive your first payment.
Can couples with children get extra support from Universal Credit?
Yes, they can claim the child element for up to 2 children.
Can Universal Credit payments be split between partners?
Yes, in some situations, you can request split payments for budgeting purposes.
