Universal Credit claimants should manage their own finances – Government

The government has claimed tenants on Universal Credit remain responsible for rent payments.

In a written parliamentary answer, the government confirmed that if tenants get into arrears, rent payments may be sent directly to their landlord.

Universal Credit is typically paid once a month directly to the claimant, who is then responsible for paying the landlord. However, the landlord can request a Managed Payment to Landlord (MPTL) as part of an Alternative Payment Arrangement (APA).

UC claimant should manage their own finances

In a written parliamentary question, Liberal Democrat MP Joshua Reynolds asked: “What assessment has the government made of the adequacy of protections for private landlords where Universal Credit housing costs have been paid to tenants but the rent has not subsequently been paid to the landlord”.

In response, Stephen Timms, minister for social security and disability, said: “The default position in Universal Credit is that claimants should manage their own finances, including payment of their rent. This encourages self-reliance and eases the transition back into work.

“Where a claimant is vulnerable or if they get into arrears, rent payments may be sent direct to their landlord, on their behalf. Decisions related to direct payments of rent must be based upon the claimant’s best interests.

“Tenants remain responsible for their rental liabilities, even where payment goes straight to their landlord.”

Tenants left in tears

As previously reported by Property118, the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP)  sparked fury as Universal Credit (UC) applicants face extensive demands to confirm their eligibility.

One landlord told Property118 that some of his tenants have been “left in tears” as they can not comply with the list of demands.

One of the demands asks to see a full-body picture including the feet of the tenant standing in the doorway of the property.