Legislation – Welfare Reform Act 2012
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Welfare Reform Act 2012, Cross Heading: Introductory is up to date with all changes known to be in force on or before 01 April 2026. There are changes that may be brought into force at a future date. Changes that have been made appear in the content and are referenced with annotations.
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Part 1Universal credit
CHAPTER 1Entitlement and awards
Introductory
1Universal credit
(1)
A benefit known as universal credit is payable in accordance with this Part.
(2)
Universal credit may, subject as follows, be awarded to—
(a)
an individual who is not a member of a couple (a “single person”), or
(b)
members of a couple jointly.
(3)
An award of universal credit is, subject as follows, calculated by reference to—
(a)
a standard allowance,
(b)
an amount for responsibility for children or young persons,
(c)
an amount for housing, and
(d)
amounts for other particular needs or circumstances.
2Claims
(1)
A claim may be made for universal credit by—
(a)
a single person, or
(b)
members of a couple jointly.
(2)
Regulations may specify circumstances in which a member of a couple may make a claim as a single person.