AQW 44246/22-27

Ms Sian Mulholland
Alliance Party
North Antrim

Tabled Date: 17/04/2026
Answered On Date: 18/08/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps she is taking to ensure that working families just above benefit thresholds are not penalised for being in employment during the cost of living crisis.

Answer:

As the primary working-age social security benefit, Universal Credit is available to both in-work and non-working claimants.

For working households, the payable amount of Universal Credit is reduced by £0.55 for every £1.00 of net earnings received by the claimant above any applicable work allowance. When a claimant’s tapered earnings exceed the total amount of Universal Credit, they will lose their entitlement.

Where the claimant’s earnings reduce below this threshold within six assessment periods, the Universal Credit award will be automatically reinstated without necessitating a new claim being made.

The Universal Credit earnings threshold, taper amount and conditions of entitlement are maintained in parity with Great Britain.

The Discretionary Support Scheme is open to households on low income, both working and non-working; and may provide financial support for household items or living expenses for utilities, fuel to heat the home, and daily living essentials such as food, and hygiene products. Discretionary Support awards are provided in the form of an interest free loan or a non-repayable grant; subject to eligibility and affordability criteria.

Claimants can make sure that they are getting all the benefits, services and support they are entitled to by contacting the Make The Call service on 0800 232 1271.