20 Universal Credit interview questions that you might get asked

April 2024

20 Universal Credit Interview Questions That You Might Get Asked On The Phone Or In Person April 2024

Many people end up needing to claim Universal Credit. This is because of various reasons, and for this reason, there are specific interview questions that the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) might ask.

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This article will help you prepare for your interview, as well as give you an idea of what you can expect to be asked about.  We do not look at the eligibility requirements or eligibility criteria for making an ongoing or single payment claim.

What is Universal credit?

Universal credit is a government benefit that is designed to help people who are on a low income or out of work. It replaces the existing benefits system by combining six separate payments into one monthly payment.

You will be asked to an interview if you want to make a universal credit claim or have a dispute over your universal credit payment. They will ask you questions about your personal circumstances.

Universal Credit Phone Appointment Questions You Might Get Asked

Here is a list of questions you might get asked during your Universal Credit phone appointment, or in person.

  1. What prompted you to apply for Universal Credit?
  2. How would you describe your current circumstances and why you need financial help?
  3. Are there any changes to your job situation or income that have caused the need for additional support from Universal Credit?
  4. Have you looked into other benefits or forms of support available to you?
  5. Do you have any dependents, such as children or an elderly relative, who rely on you for financial support?
  6. Can you provide proof of your identity and address?
  1. Have there been any changes in your living situation since you first applied for Universal Credit (such as a move)?
  2. Do you have access to the internet and know how to manage your Universal Credit account?
  3. Do you understand the terms of your agreement with Universal Credit, and explain it to them if asked?
  4. Is there anything else that could affect your eligibility for Universal Credit or any other benefits?
  5. Are you currently in employment, training or education and what do you plan to do after receiving Universal Credit?
  6. Have you received advice from a professional about handling debt or money management issues? They may also want to know about your savings and debts that you have, ie a loan secured against any of your property or properties.
  1. Do you have any additional needs related to disabilities, health conditions or caring responsibilities that need to be considered when assessing your claim for Universal Credit? If you do have a disability or health condition, it would be good to make sure you raise this.
  2. What is your current budgeting plan, including how much you can afford to pay back each month?
  3. Are you aware of the sanctions that might be applied if you break any Universal Credit rules and do you have a plan in place to avoid them?
  4. Do you understand the requirements needed for continuing your claim, such as attending work-focused interviews or completing job searches? Your DWP adviser can help you in this area. In addition, your local jobcentre will be able to support you
  5. Are there any other issues that could affect your ability to manage your finances or make payments on time?
need to take to the interview
  1. Do you have a plan in place for paying back any advances taken from your Universal Credit payment or reviewable periods where your income will increase due to changes in circumstances?
  2. What support do you need from us to help manage your budget effectively and successfully manage your claim?
  3. Is there anything else you’d like to add that could help us decide whether or not to award you Universal Credit?

Answering these questions honestly and completely will go a long way in getting your application for Universal Credit approved.

"Many people end up needing to claim Universal Credit. This is because of various reasons, and for this reason, there are specific interview questions that the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) might ask.

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What do you need to take to the interview?

It is important to ensure you have all the necessary documents, evidence and information when attending your Universal Credit interview. This includes:

  • Proof of identity (passport, driver’s license or another form of photo identification)
  • Proof of address (utility bills, council tax bill etc.)
  • Bank statements for the last six months
  • Evidence of any benefits or family income from employment/self-employment. You will also need to tell them who your employer is.
Universal Credit interview
  • Details of any housing costs, including rent/mortgage payments
  • Evidence of any debts owed to other organisations
  • Documents showing details of any children living in the household, as well as childcare costs
  • Any other relevant information that could help support your claim.

These are just some of the documents that may be requested during your interview. It is important to make sure you have all of these ready in case they are needed.

Additionally, if there are any other special circumstances relevant to your claims, such as ill health or caring responsibilities, it is a good idea to bring evidence of this too. Having all of the necessary information available will speed up the process and help ensure that your application for Universal Credit is successful.

Your Universal Credit interview, work coach and activities

At the interview, your Universal Credit work coach will ask you a series of questions to assess your eligibility and understand how Universal Credit can help you. They will also discuss activities that could help you move closer towards achieving independence. This may include work-focused interviews or job searching.

The information gathered at this stage is used to create an action plan for regularly tracking and assessing your progress in achieving Independence. 

If there are any additional support needs, such as ill health or disabilities, these should be discussed too so that suitable adjustments can also be made where necessary.

If you need any further advice, you can contact the Citizens Advice Bureau.

work coach and activities

Meet the author

Jane Parkinson

Jane Parkinson

Jane is one of our primary content writers and specialises in elder care. She has a degree in English language and literature from Manchester University and has been writing and reviewing products for a number of years.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Universal credit?

Universal credit is a government benefit that is designed to help people who are on a low income or out of work. It replaces the existing benefits system by combining six separate payments into one monthly payment.

What do you need to take to the interview?

It is important to ensure you have all the necessary documents, evidence and information when attending your Universal Credit interview.

Your Universal Credit interview, work coach and activities

At the interview, your Universal Credit work coach will ask you a series of questions to assess your eligibility and understand how Universal Credit can help you.

20 Universal Credit interview questions that you might get asked

Many people end up needing to claim Universal Credit. This is because of various reasons, and for this reason, there are specific interview questions that the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) might ask.

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