If you claim and you're planning your summer holiday abroad, you may not be aware of a key () rule that you must follow.

You can continue claiming your Universal Credit if you leave the UK for up to one month - but you need to inform the DWP and your work coach of your plans. You will also have to stick to your claimant commitment which could include looking for work while you are abroad.

If you are in the intensive work search group, then you are generally expected to spend 35 hours a week looking for work - and this includes if you go on holiday. You will likely need to show evidence of the jobs you have looked at and applied for while you've been away.

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There are exceptions, such as if you’re abroad for medical treatment, in which case you can stay up to six months, or if a close relative passes away, then you would be allowed one extra month abroad.

It comes after Universal Credit payments rose by 1.7% from this month. Universal Credit is made up of a standard allowance, which is the basic amount you get before any additional elements - for example, if you have children or are unable to work due to illness - or any deductions are taken into account.

You may be subject to deductions if you have savings or if you owe the Department for Work and (DWP) money. If you work, there is a taper rate which reduces your maximum Universal Credit payment as your earnings increase.

The taper rate is 55% which means 55p is deducted from your maximum Universal Credit payment for every £1 you earn. Some people get a "work allowance" which is a set amount you can earn before your Universal Credit is reduced.

Standard allowance

• Single under 25: £316.98 a month




• Single 25 or over: £400.14 a month




• Joint claimants both under 25: £497.55 a month




• Joint claimants, one or both 25 or over: £628.10 a month

Child element

• First child born before April 6, 2017: £339 a month


• First child born on or after April 6, 2017 or second child and subsequent child: £292.81 a month


• Disabled child element lower rate: £158.76 a month


• Disabled child higher rate: £495.87 a month

Limited capability for work

• Limited capability for work: £158.76 a month


• Limited capability for work or work-related activity: £423.27 a month

Carer element

• £201.68 a month

Work allowance

• Higher work allowance (no housing amount): £684 a month


• Lower work allowance (with housing amount): £411 a month

Childcare costs element

• Maximum for one child: £1,031.88 a month


• Maximum for two or more children: £1,768.94 a month