Hello everyone! A viral claim is circulating on social media and some websites stating that the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has approved a £1,200 back payment (arrears) for Universal Credit claimants in 2026, often described as “good news” for those affected by past errors during the transition from legacy benefits.
The Truth as of January 1, 2026: There is no new widespread £1,200 back payment scheme approved for 2026. This appears to be a misleading or recycled rumor based on older DWP correction programs (from 2023-2025) for severe disability premium (SDP) transitional arrears or migration errors. Those programs paid varying amounts (average ~£1,200 in some cases) to specific eligible claimants, but they are largely completed or ongoing on a case-by-case basis – not a new blanket payment for 2026.
No official DWP announcement supports a fresh £1,200 arrears payout starting in 2026.
What Are the Real Back Payments or Arrears?
- Historical Arrears Corrections: From 2019-2025, DWP reviewed cases where claimants lost out during Universal Credit migration (e.g., missing SDP element). Eligible recipients received backdated payments (amounts varied: £500-£5,000+ depending on case).
- Transitional Protection: During managed migration to UC (completing by March 2026), some get “top-up” payments to match old legacy benefit levels – not a fixed £1,200.
- Overpayment Recovery: DWP recovers overpayments, but that’s deductions, not payments.
If you were underpaid due to an error, you may still qualify for arrears – but it’s individual, not universal.
Who Might Be Eligible for Any Arrears?
- Claimants transitioned from legacy benefits (e.g., ESA, Income Support) to UC and lost entitlements (e.g., severe disability premium).
- Those with historical calculation errors (reviewed by DWP teams).
- Migration notice recipients (until March 2026) who claim on time may get transitional protection.
Not Eligible: New claimants or those without proven underpayment.
What to Do If You Think You’re Owed Arrears
- Check your UC journal or contact DWP (helpline: 0800 328 5644).
- For migration: Respond to “Migration Notice” letters promptly.
- No need to apply separately for most arrears – DWP contacts eligible people.
- Seek advice from Citizens Advice or Turn2us if unsure.
2026 UC Changes (Real Updates)
- Standard allowance increases (~6% from April 2026).
- LCWRA health element changes for new claimants.
- Full legacy benefit migration completes by March 2026.
The £1,200 figure seems exaggerated from past median arrears cases. Don’t fall for scams asking for details/fees. Have you received any back payment? Share experiences below (anonymously)! Stay informed and safe.