The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has officially confirmed that several long-standing welfare payments, often referred to as older or legacy benefits, will end by 31 March. Millions of households across the UK are now receiving formal letters instructing them to move to Universal Credit, marking the final phase of one of the biggest welfare reforms in decades.
This announcement brings clarity to a transition that has been gradually unfolding for years. For many claimants, especially those who have relied on the same benefits for a long time, the arrival of these letters has raised understandable concerns about income security, deadlines, and what steps need to be taken next.
Why the DWP Is Ending Older Benefits
The government’s goal has long been to simplify the welfare system by replacing multiple payments with a single monthly benefit. According to the DWP, running both legacy benefits and Universal Credit side by side is costly, complex, and confusing for claimants.
By ending older benefits, the department says it can deliver a more streamlined system that better reflects modern working patterns, including people moving in and out of employment or increasing their hours.
Which Benefits Are Classed as Legacy Benefits
The benefits being phased out include Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Housing Benefit for working-age claimants, Working Tax Credit, and Child Tax Credit.
These benefits have already been closed to new claims. The current process focuses on moving remaining claimants onto Universal Credit in an organized and managed way.
What the March 31 Deadline Really Means
The 31 March deadline does not mean benefits stop suddenly without warning. Instead, it marks the final stage of the managed migration program, where claimants are formally notified and given time to make a Universal Credit claim.
Each letter includes a specific deadline by which the claimant must apply. Missing this deadline could result in payments stopping.
Why Millions Are Receiving Universal Credit Letters
The letters being sent out are official notices from the DWP. They explain that an existing benefit will end and that a claim for Universal Credit must be made to continue receiving financial support.
Receiving a letter does not automatically stop payments. However, it does start a countdown, making timely action essential.
What Happens If the Letter Is Ignored
If no Universal Credit claim is made by the deadline stated in the letter, the existing benefit can end. This may leave individuals or families without income until a new claim is submitted and processed.
The DWP strongly advises claimants not to ignore these letters and to seek help immediately if they are unsure what to do.
How Universal Credit Replaces Older Benefits
Universal Credit combines support for living costs, housing, children, and limited capability for work into one monthly payment. While this can provide a clearer overview of total support, it represents a significant change from the older system.
Payments are made monthly, which some claimants find challenging at first, especially if they were previously paid weekly or fortnightly.
Concerns About Losing Money and Transitional Protection
Many people worry that moving to Universal Credit could reduce their income. The DWP says transitional protection is available for those who move as part of the managed migration process and would otherwise be worse off.
This protection tops up Universal Credit payments so that claimants do not receive less at the point of transfer. However, it may reduce over time if circumstances change.
Why Claim Timing Is Important
Claiming Universal Credit too early or outside the managed migration process could mean losing access to transitional protection. This is why it is essential to follow the instructions in the migration letter carefully.
Claimants are encouraged not to rush but also not to delay beyond the stated deadline.
Support Available During the Transition
The DWP offers support for those who struggle with online applications, including telephone assistance and face-to-face help in some areas. Additional guidance is available through independent organizations that help people understand their options.
This support is especially important for vulnerable claimants, including those with disabilities or long-term health conditions.
How Housing Benefit Is Affected
For working-age claimants, Housing Benefit is being replaced by the housing element of Universal Credit. This means rent support is included in the monthly payment rather than paid separately.
Some tenants are concerned about managing rent payments themselves, but alternative payment arrangements may be available in certain circumstances.
What Pensioners and Disabled Claimants Should Know
Most people who have reached State Pension age are not required to move to Universal Credit and may remain on Pension Credit. However, mixed-age couples may still be affected.
Disabled and long-term sick claimants currently receiving income-related ESA are also part of the migration process, with protections in place during the move.
What Happens After March 31
After 31 March, legacy benefits will no longer continue for those required to migrate. Universal Credit will become the primary form of support for working-age claimants.
This change represents the end of an era in the UK benefits system and the completion of a long-running reform program.
What Claimants Should Do Now
Anyone who receives a Universal Credit migration letter should read it carefully, note the deadline, and seek advice if needed. Acting promptly can help prevent payment gaps and reduce stress.
While the transition may feel daunting, support and safeguards are available for those who follow the managed process.
Final Thoughts
The confirmation that older benefits will end by March 31 is a significant moment for millions of households. The move to Universal Credit reshapes how financial support is delivered across the UK.
Staying informed, relying on official guidance, and responding to DWP letters on time are key to ensuring continued support during this final stage of welfare reform.
My name is Arsam, and I am the founder and author of Mymct. I created this website to share reliable mobile technology updates and important news in a simple and easy-to-understand way. I have a strong interest in smartphones, mobile apps, and the fast-changing digital world, and I enjoy researching topics that are useful for everyday users.