If a Universal Credit claimant needs some money to tide them over: 

• Where there is a delay in making a payment on an on-going claim, or
• Where their award is due to increase following a change in circumstances that will result in a significant increase in their award: such as finishing work, becoming a couple or having a baby, 

- they can ask for a Change in Circumstances Advance.

A change in circumstances which could have the effect of increasing the Universal Credit award amounts are things such as: starting to pay rent, having a baby, becoming a couple,  paying childcare costs,  loss of earnings.

A Change in Circumstances Advance  is a loan that will be repaid over 6 months out of  future UC payments.

Whether a claimant can get one will depend on whether they can demonstrate that there is a serious risk of damage to the health or safety of the claimant or any member of their family and whether they can afford to re-pay it.

They can apply online via their UC account or by calling the UC Helpline 0800 328 5644.