Thousands of people in the UK who claim Universal Credit are set to receive a one-off payment of £149 into their bank accounts that they won't have to pay back.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that any claimants who are moving across from other legacy benefits to Universal Credit will receive an extra two weeks of money without having to pay it back.
This comes as the controversial benefit system continues to replace other benefits, and came into effect on July 22.
The DWP claims that more than one million households are set to benefit from the payments resulting from the two week run-on.
So, if your Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA), Income Support, or Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) is ending because you're applying for Universal Credit, you'll get a two week extra payment.
The run-on is aimed at helping claimants to bridge the gap between and adjust financially to the new benefit during their first assessment period.
It'll be paid to all people applying for Universal Credit for the first time.
The Minister for Welfare Delivery, Will Quince, said: "This one-off payment will provide additional support as claimants move from legacy benefits to Universal Credit.
"It doesn't have to be paid back and won't affect their UC award, so is welcome extra cash in pockets."
The run-on payments will also include premiums that any claimants have been receiving before the move over to Universal Credit.
That includes Enhanced Disability Premium, Carer Premium, and ESA work-related activity component.
There were more than three million claims for Universal Credit received by the DWP between March 1 and May 26 this year, as a result of the job losses caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
Universal Credit is replacing Child Tax Credit, Housing Benefit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, and Working Tax Credits.
The rates for Universal Credit mean that single people over 25 receive £409.89 per month, those under 25 receive £342.72, and those in a couple over 25 with children get £594.04 for both members, and those under 25 in a couple with children get £488.59 for both.
Those with more than one child can get more money because of that, and people with disabilities and health conditions can also get extra cash.
There are also extra payments made to those who care for someone with a severely disabled person.
You can claim for Universal Credit on the government's website.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: UK News, Money, Politics