Estimate your monthly Universal Credit using 2026/27 standard allowances, child elements and the 55% taper.
Choose your household type
Single under-25, single 25+, couple under-25, or couple 25+. This sets the standard allowance.
Add child and housing elements
Include £351.88/month for first child born before 6 April 2017 (else £303.94) plus £303.94/month for each additional child under the two-child limit. Add housing costs if renting.
Enter monthly net earnings
Use take-home pay after tax, NI and pension. Use the Take-Home Pay calculator for an accurate figure.
Apply the work allowance
£427/month if your award includes housing; £710/month if not. Only available if you have children or limited capability for work.
Apply the 55% taper
For every £1 of net earnings above the work allowance, your UC is reduced by 55p.
Check savings rules
Savings under £6,000 are ignored. £6,000-£16,000 reduces UC by £4.35/month per £250. Over £16,000 disqualifies you.
The benefit cap is set higher for households in Greater London than the rest of the UK, reflecting higher housing costs. A worked example of how the London rate applies in 2026/27.
Balancing childcare and elderly parent care at the same time creates overlapping claims — Tax-Free Childcare, Carer's Allowance, Attendance Allowance and grandparent NI credits. How they interact in 2026/27.
What happens after you submit your Self Assessment return — refunds, balancing payments, amendments, HMRC enquiries, the SA302 for mortgages, and the 5-year record-keeping rule
Disclaimer: All results are estimates for guidance only and do not constitute financial, tax or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional.
