Universal Credit Free Number 0345 – New Contact Number
Universal Credit is a vital financial safety net for millions of people across the UK, providing essential support for those on low incomes, unemployed, or unable to work.
However, navigating the system can sometimes be complex, especially for first-time claimants.
To address this, the UK government has introduced a range of freephone helplines, ensuring claimants can access guidance and support without incurring any additional costs.
The Universal Credit free number 0345, previously one of the main contact numbers for claimants, has now been replaced with a range of toll-free 0800 numbers.
These updates reflect the government’s ongoing commitment to making Universal Credit services more accessible, inclusive, and cost-effective for everyone.
In this article, we’ll provide a detailed overview of Universal Credit, highlight the updated contact numbers, and explain how to access the help and support you need.
What Is Universal Credit?
Universal Credit is a UK government welfare programme that combines several older benefits into a single monthly payment.
It was introduced to simplify the benefits system and provide a more streamlined process for claimants.
The benefits replaced by Universal Credit include:
- Income Support
- Housing Benefit
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (income-based)
- Employment and Support Allowance (income-based)
Universal Credit is designed to support individuals and families who are either unemployed, earning a low income, or unable to work due to disability or health issues.
It helps with basic living costs and housing expenses, ensuring that financial aid reaches those who need it most.
Why Accessible Support Matters?
The complexity of Universal Credit can sometimes lead to confusion, especially for claimants unfamiliar with the process.
From submitting an application to understanding your entitlement, having accessible support channels is critical.
The introduction of freephone numbers ensures that no claimant is excluded from receiving the help they need due to financial constraints.
Key Universal Credit Freephone Numbers
In a significant move to improve accessibility, the UK government has replaced the previous 0345 helplines with new 0800 freephone numbers.
These numbers allow claimants to access support without worrying about call charges, making it easier for everyone to get the help they need.
Updated Universal Credit Freephone Numbers:
- Universal Credit live service: 0800 328 9344
(This replaces 0345 600 0723) - Universal Credit full service: 0800 328 5644
(This replaces 0345 600 4272)
If you call the old 0345 numbers, you’ll hear an automated message informing you of the change and directing you to the new freephone numbers.
Contacting Universal Credit Support
- Universal Credit claimants can access support in several ways, ensuring that assistance is available no matter your preferred method of communication.
Ways to Contact Universal Credit
Through Your Online Account
Once you’ve set up your Universal Credit account, you can use it to:
- Send messages to your work coach.
- Track your application or payments.
- Receive important updates and notifications about your claim.
This method is available 24/7, making it a convenient option for many claimants.
Universal Credit Helpline
If you prefer speaking to an adviser, the Universal Credit helpline offers direct assistance. The helpline can help with various queries, including applications, payments, and account issues.
- Telephone: 0800 328 5644
- Textphone: 0800 328 1344
- Relay UK (if you cannot hear or speak on the phone): Dial 18001 then 0800 328 5644
- Welsh Language Service: 0800 328 1744
- British Sign Language (BSL) Video Relay Service: Available for computer, mobile, or tablet users.
- Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Local Job Centres
- For face-to-face assistance, you can visit your local job centre.
- Job centres provide personalised support and can help with applications, job searches, and general enquiries.
Applying for New Style Benefits with Universal Credit
In addition to Universal Credit, some claimants may qualify for New Style Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) or New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA).
These benefits are designed for individuals with a history of National Insurance contributions and can be claimed alongside or instead of Universal Credit.
New Style ESA
This benefit provides financial support for those unable to work due to illness or disability.
- Apply Online: Use the government website for easy and secure applications.
Jobcentre Plus New Claims Helpline for ESA:
- Telephone: 0800 055 6688
- Textphone: 0800 328 1344
- Relay UK: Dial 18001 then 0800 055 6688
- Welsh Language Service: 0800 328 1744
New Style JSA
For individuals actively seeking work, New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) offers financial assistance to support you while you look for employment.
- Apply Online: Submit your application through the official government platform.
Jobcentre Plus New Claims Helpline for JSA:
- Telephone: 0800 055 6688
- Textphone: 0800 023 4888
- Relay UK: Dial 18001 then 0800 055 6688
- Welsh Language Service: 0800 012 1888
Managing Existing ESA or JSA Claims
If you already have an active claim for ESA or JSA, you can contact the Jobcentre Plus helpline for assistance with updates or queries:
Jobcentre Plus Helpline for Existing Claims:
- Telephone: 0800 169 0310
- Textphone: 0800 169 0314
- Relay UK: Dial 18001 then 0800 169 0310
- Welsh Language Service: 0800 328 1744
Key Benefits of Universal Credit Freephone Numbers
The introduction of free phone numbers is a game-changer for Universal Credit claimants. Here’s why:
- Cost-Free Support: Unlike the previous 0345 numbers, the new 0800 numbers allow claimants to access help without worrying about call charges.
- Inclusive Services: Textphones, Relay UK, and BSL services ensure accessibility for people with disabilities or hearing impairments.
- Efficient Help: Speaking to a trained adviser ensures faster resolutions for claim-related issues.
Conclusion
The introduction of freephone numbers has significantly improved accessibility for Universal Credit claimants, ensuring that help is just a phone call away without any extra costs.
Whether you need support with your Universal Credit claim, guidance on New Style ESA or JSA, or answers to general queries, the updated helpline numbers and other support options make the process much easier.
For more information about Universal Credit, other UK benefits, and the latest updates, visit Universal Credit News for comprehensive and reliable resources.
FAQs: Universal Credit and Helplines
What are the new Universal Credit freephone numbers?
- Universal Credit live service: 0800 328 9344
- Universal Credit full service: 0800 328 5644
Is the Universal Credit helpline free?
Yes, all the 0800 numbers are completely free to call.
How do I access support if I have a disability?
You can use textphones, Relay UK, or BSL video relay services to access Universal Credit support.
What should I have when calling the helpline?
Have your National Insurance number, claim reference, and any correspondence related to your query ready.
Can I apply for ESA or JSA with Universal Credit?
Yes, you can apply for New Style ESA or New Style JSA alongside Universal Credit if you’re eligible.
