After you apply, it can take up to five weeks to get your first Universal Credit payment. This includes:
- a four-week assessment period to work out how much you’ll get, and
- up to seven days for you to get the money.
Can I get Universal Credit paid early?
You can ask to be paid early (called an advance) if you’ll struggle while waiting for your first Universal Credit payment.
This can be up to the full amount of your standard Universal Credit allowance and you might be paid the same day as you apply. It’s a loan, so your future payments will be lower until it’s fully repaid.
Think carefully before asking for an advance. If you’ve already missed a payment or are worried you might, use our Debt advice locator to find free debt help near you, online or on the phone.
For more help and information, see our guides: