Scottish benefits claimants are being urged to prepare for the switch to Universal Credit.

Advice Direct Scotland, which operates the national advice service advice.scot, has issued a warning to households as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) continues to move more people over to the single-payment system.

Universal Credit is gradually replacing six older forms of benefits and tax credits, known as legacy benefits.

People currently receiving Income-based Jobseekers Allowance (JSA) will be sent a migration notice in September, and tax credit claimants who have reached state pension age will also receive letters inviting them to claim Universal Credit or Pension Credit.

People are reminded that the move to Universal Credit is not automatic and that they need to apply by the deadline stated in their letters, which is typically within three months.

Failure to do so will result in their payments being stopped.

Conor Forbes, policy director at Advice Direct Scotland, said: “With thousands more Scots being notified of the move to Universal Credit, it’s vital that they understand the next steps and how it will affect them.

“The ongoing cost-of-living crisis and further rises in energy prices are putting incredible strain on household budgets, so people should ensure they are getting all the support they are entitled to.

“We urge households to check their mail and remember that the move to Universal Credit is not automatic.

“Once people receive their migration notice, they should use the three-month window to review everything and ensure they are ready to apply for Universal Credit, as well as any 'transitional protection' they may be eligible for.

“Help is available for anyone who is worried or confused.

“Advice Direct Scotland’s experts are here to offer a wide range of services to everyone at no cost, regardless of personal circumstances.”

Advice Direct Scotland also highlighted that some people may receive less money on Universal Credit than from their previous benefits.

In such cases, they should automatically receive ‘transitional protection payments’ to bridge the gap, provided they have received a migration notice and apply by the deadline.

People can claim online at the gov.uk website, by phoning the Universal Credit Migration Notice helpline at 0800 169 0328, or in person at a local JobCentre.