When is the best time to claim Universal Credit if I’m moving at the end of June? (ESA to UC – natur

JustJem

Hi everyone,

I’m hoping someone can help me because I’m really anxious about getting this right.

I’m currently on ESA (Support Group) and receive the Severe Disability Premium (SDP). I also get PIP at the enhanced rate for both daily living and mobility.

I’m moving out of my current local authority around the end of June (the exact date isn’t confirmed yet), and I haven’t received a managed migration letter — so I know this will be a natural migration to Universal Credit.

I’ve spoken to Citizens Advice, and they said:

My expected UC payment will be around £1,546.12 a month (including LCWRA, SDP transitional element, housing, and standard allowance).

I should claim the day before I move so I can get the 2-week housing benefit run-on from my current council.

My ESA Support Group status should carry over, and I won’t need fit notes.

But I might be reassessed because it’s been over 2 years since my last WCA.

My ESA payments are on 23rd June and 7th July.

I’m really scared that if I claim UC too early, I’ll lose that 7th July ESA payment.

But if I wait too long, I might miss out on the housing benefit run-on.

I’ve already called ESA, UC, and went into my local Jobcentre, but none of them could give me a clear answer.

I’m autistic and struggle with uncertainty and anxiety, and I just want to make sure I do the right thing and don’t mess this up.

If anyone has been through this or has any advice, I’d really appreciate it.

I just want to know the best time to make the claim.

Thank you so much.