AQW 44622/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 23/04/2026
Answered On Date: 08/05/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any notice provided to claimants in advance of a Universal Credit claim being closed, following a six-month nil payment period.

Answer:

As entitlement to Universal Credit is calculated at the end of each monthly assessment period, advance notice of closure is not possible where this is the result of six consecutive periods with a nil award.

The www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/universal-credit-if-you’re-employed website advises Universal Credit claimants if their payment stops and if it’s been more than six months, they will need to reapply for Universal Credit. The Universal Credit system is designed to automatically close the claim.