The Department for Work and Pensions has announced that two major benefits will be permanently abolished in early 2026, affecting thousands of claimants across the UK.
Benefits Facing Permanent Closure
Both Income Support (IS) and Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) will cease entirely from 1st April 2026, marking the final phase of the government's migration from legacy benefits to Universal Credit. This process initially began back in 2022 and is now reaching its conclusion.
Existing claims for these benefits will be stopped as part of the managed migration process. The DWP has issued an urgent warning to all recipients to ensure they don't miss critical deadlines for switching to alternative support.
What Claimants Need to Do
All current recipients of Income Support and Jobseeker's Allowance should expect to receive an official letter requesting them to begin the migration process. Responding to this letter is absolutely crucial to maintain financial support during the transition.
Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for social security and disability, emphasised the importance of taking action: "With IS and JSA due to close early next year, my message to readers is simple - if you get a letter asking you to move to Universal Credit, please don't ignore it. It's really important you respond so you keep getting the support you're entitled to."
Support Available During Transition
The Department has highlighted several support mechanisms available to help people through the migration process:
- A dedicated helpline for migration queries
- Comprehensive guidance available on GOV.UK
- Citizens Advice's free Help to Claim service
- Additional support including phone calls and home visits for those moving from Employment and Support Allowance
For those currently receiving Jobseeker's Allowance, New Style JSA remains available to provide support while seeking employment. However, it's important to note that income-based JSA applications are no longer accepted.
Claimants moving to Universal Credit will automatically continue receiving their current JSA amount for two weeks following their new claim, provided they remain eligible. The DWP will provide detailed information about how this transitional protection works.
The clock is now ticking for thousands of benefit recipients to complete their migration before the April 2026 deadline arrives.
