Brexit came into effect on 1 January 2021 and with it came changes to the rights of EU citizens being able to live, work and access public funds in the UK.
If you’re an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen, you and your family will need to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme to continue living in the UK after 30 June 2021. You can also apply if you’re the family member of an eligible person of Northern Ireland.
It is extremely important you apply for settled or pre-settled status if you are currently working or claiming either Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support Jobseekers Allowance, Tax Credits, or Pension Credit, as failing to do so could affect your eligibility to work or claim.
Whether you get settled or pre-settled status depends on how long you have been living in the UK. Those who have been living here for five years or more will get settled status, and those who have been in the country less than five years will be pre-settled. Both settled and pre-settled citizens are able to work, use the NHS and access public funds in the UK.
To find out more and to apply for the scheme, visit https://www.gov.uk/eusettledstatus. The deadline to do so is 30 June 2021.
If you have any other questions regarding housing benefits or other claims, please speak to a our Money Advice team by calling 0161 331 2000 or emailing moneyadviceteam@jigsawhomes.org.uk.
