Universal Credit Sign Up: How to Create an Account
To sign up for Universal Credit (UC), create an online account and use it to make your claim. You must complete the claim within 28 days of creating the account.
Before you start, have your email address, phone access and key claim details ready. This can make the process easier and help you avoid delays.
For the current application process, you can check the Universal Credit claim guidance.
Reviewed by Sarah Ahmed, benefits guidance writer. Last checked: October 2026.
Do You Need to Sign Up for a Universal Credit Account?
Yes, if you are making a new Universal Credit claim online. You can register for a Universal Credit account and use it to start your application and complete the tasks linked to your claim.
There is an important difference between creating an account and submitting a claim. Creating the account starts the process. You still need to complete and submit your application.
New to Universal Credit?
If you have never claimed Universal Credit, you can create a new account online.
You will enter your personal details and then begin your claim. Keep your account details secure because you will need access during the claim.
Claimed Universal Credit Before?
If you already have a Universal Credit account, use it rather than creating another one.
You can sign in to your existing account and start a new claim from there. This avoids creating duplicate account details.
If you already have a Universal Credit account, use it rather than creating another one.
If you need help accessing an existing account, see our Universal Credit login guide.
What Do You Need Before Signing Up for Universal Credit?
You need an email address, access to a phone and information about your circumstances. The exact details depend on your situation.
Before You Start Checklist
Have these details nearby where they apply to you:
| Information | What you may need |
| Contact details | Email address and access to a phone |
| Personal details | Name, date of birth and address |
| National Insurance | Your National Insurance number, if you have one |
| Bank details | Bank, building society or credit union details |
| Housing | Rent and housing information |
| Work | Employer and earnings details |
| Savings | Savings and investments |
| Other benefits | Details of benefits you receive |
| Children | Childcare costs and related information |
| Health | Relevant health or disability information |
You may not need every item listed above. The questions you receive depend on your circumstances. Having your main details ready can make the application easier.
Before You Create Your Account: One Important Check
You can use a few simple checks.
- If you already receive benefits, check how a Universal Credit claim could affect them before applying.
- Before creating your account, check whether you meet the main Universal Credit eligibility rules for your circumstances.
Check Universal Credit eligibility → - Some benefits can end when you or your partner claim Universal Credit. You may not be able to return to those benefits later. Before applying, it can help to understand what Universal Credit is and how the system works.
- This is worth checking before you create an account, especially if you currently receive more than one benefit.
How to Sign Up for Universal Credit Online
The process has two connected stages. First, you create your account. Then you use it to make your claim.
1. Create Your Universal Credit Account
Start the online account creation process.
You need an email address and access to a phone. Use an email address that you check regularly.
Keep your account details private. Do not share your password or security information.
2. Enter Your Personal Details
Follow the questions shown during account creation.
You may need to provide your name, date of birth, address and contact details.
Check each answer before continuing. Make sure your personal information is correct.
3. Start Your Universal Credit Claim
Creating the account does not submit your claim.
You still need to answer questions about your circumstances. These can cover your housing, earnings, savings, childcare and other benefits.
Give information that reflects your current situation.
4. Complete Your To Do List
Your Universal Credit account can show tasks that you need to complete.
Some tasks ask about your circumstances. Others may require more information or another action.
Work through the list carefully. You can start your application and return to it later.
5. Check and Submit Your Claim
Review your information before submitting the claim.
Pay particular attention to:
- Contact details
- Bank details
- Housing information
- Earnings
- Savings
- Family details
Correct any mistakes before submitting. Your claim starts on the date you submit it through your account.
If you think your claim should start from an earlier date, see our guide to Universal Credit backdating.
How Long Do You Have to Complete a Universal Credit Claim?
- You have 28 days to complete your claim after creating your account.
- If you do not complete it within that period, you will need to start again.
- Preparing your main information first can help you stay within the deadline.
Do Couples Need Separate Universal Credit Accounts?
Yes. If you live with your partner as a couple, both of you need your own Universal Credit accounts.
You then link the accounts as part of the joint claim. You cannot make a joint claim through one shared account.
How Are the Accounts Linked?
- The two accounts are linked during the joint claim process.
- The exact steps shown can depend on where you are in the application. Follow the instructions displayed in your account.
- Each partner should keep their own account and sign in details.
Do You Need to Verify Your Identity?
- Yes. Identity verification forms part of the Universal Credit claim process.
- You may need documents that help confirm who you are. Examples can include a passport, driving licence, debit or credit card, payslip or P60.
- The documents available to you may depend on your circumstances.
What If You Do Not Have Suitable Identity Documents?
If you cannot verify your identity online, do not create another account.
Follow the instructions provided with your claim. You may need further contact with the Universal Credit team or an appointment.
What Happens After You Sign Up?
Creating your account is only the first stage.
After you submit your claim, you may need to:
- Complete remaining tasks
- Provide more information
- Confirm your identity
- Attend an appointment
- Speak with a work coach
- Agree to your claimant commitment
- Check messages in your journal
Your online account remains important after you apply.
Check your journal and to do list regularly. New messages or tasks can appear there.
If you later have trouble accessing your account, our Universal Credit login problems guide covers common access issues.
If you forget your password, use our Universal Credit password reset guide for the recovery process.
What If You Cannot Apply Online?
If you cannot use the online application process, you can make a Universal Credit claim by phone. You can also get help with preparing or completing your claim.
If you need help with the application, explain your situation when you ask for support. You can then find out which application route is suitable for you.
Universal Credit Sign Up FAQs
How do I sign up for Universal Credit?
Create a Universal Credit account online, then use it to start your claim. Complete the required tasks and submit your application.
What do I need to create a Universal Credit account?
You need an email address and access to a phone. You should also prepare information about your identity, housing, income and other circumstances.
How long do I have to complete my Universal Credit claim?
You have 28 days after creating your account. If you do not complete the claim within that time, you will need to start again.
Can I create a new account if I claimed Universal Credit before?
If you already have an account, use it instead of creating another one. You can sign in and start a new claim from your existing account.
Do both partners need a Universal Credit account?
Yes. Both partners need separate accounts when they make a joint Universal Credit claim.
Can I apply for Universal Credit without going online?
Yes. If you cannot use the online process, you can make a claim by phone and ask for help with your application.