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Get ready for Universal Credit

Open a bank account

You must have a bank, building society or credit union account before you can apply for Universal Credit. The Money Advice Service has advice about choosing a bank account.

North Ayrshire Council works in partnership with 1st Alliance Credit Union. To set up a credit union account, telephone 01294 557123 or visit their office at 147 Main Street, Kilwinning. 

Budgeting

You will receive Universal Credit as a single monthly payment. On your application you can choose to receive your payments on a fortnightly basis instead. However, this will only apply after the first payment has been made.

You may need to change the way you budget, for example some payments, like rent, may be due fortnightly, for guidance in this visit the DWP website. Budgeting support teams are available to help you manage your Universal Credit payments. They can also refer you to support agencies if you are having issues with debt.

Budgeting advice

For help with budgeting or debt advice:

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