Going back to work on benefits in Northern Ireland

Check whether you would be better off with our better off working calculator.

Universal Credit when you work

You may still be able to claim Universal Credit if you and/ or your partner are employed. The amount you can get depends on your circumstances, including your income and how many children you have.

Help as old benefits stop

When you start a job, work more hours or earn more money, some of your benefits may stop. To help you pay rent and rates, you might get an extended payment of Housing Benefit. This payment can last up to four weeks. You should expect the job, or the increase in hours or earnings, to last at least five weeks.

Mortgage Interest Run On is an extra four weeks of money you can get towards paying your housing costs if certain other benefits are stopping because you're returning to work, earning or working more.

If the job ends

Your Universal Credit online account stays open for six months after your claim ends. You can reclaim Universal Credit within six assessment periods of your claim closing without having to make a full claim, unless your circumstances have changed, for example a new partner.

Students

Part-time students and certain groups of full-time students may sometimes be eligible for income-related benefits. If you have a partner who is not a student and they’re eligible for any income-related benefits, your partner can claim on behalf of you both. See Universal Credit questions.

Common questions

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