What it includes
The claimant commitment lists your work-related requirements: any work-related activities you must complete to receive Universal Credit. What you have to do depends on your circumstances. GOV.UK gives these examples:
- appointments with your work coach
- updating your CV
- searching for jobs
It can also include taking part in training courses or employment schemes recommended to you, and applying for suitable jobs.
When you agree it
You will have to go to a meeting to agree the activities in your claimant commitment before you can get your first payment. Appointments can be at a jobcentre or by phone. If you need to look for work, you are given a work coach.
Get it right at the start
Your commitment should match your real situation. Before the meeting, think about the hours you can work, how far you can travel and anything that affects what you can do, such as caring for children or a health condition. GOV.UK says you might have less money taken off in a sanction if, for example, you care for young children or disabled people, or you are close to having or have just had a baby, so tell your work coach about circumstances like these.
Keep it up to date
Make sure your claimant commitment is based on your current circumstances by reporting changes in your Universal Credit account. If you cannot do something you agreed, contact DWP straight away through your journal or the contact details your work coach gave you.
What happens if you do not keep to it
If you do not complete your agreed activities and you have no good reason, your payment can be reduced. That is a sanction. Examples of a good reason in the guidance include a hospital appointment at the same time as a meeting, being unexpectedly ill or a domestic emergency. If you missed an appointment, read what to do now.
Frequently asked questions
What is a claimant commitment?
The agreement you accept to get Universal Credit. It sets out your work-related requirements: the work-related activities you must complete to receive Universal Credit.
When do I agree it?
At a meeting with DWP. You have to go to that meeting before you can get your first payment.
What can be in it?
It depends on your circumstances. GOV.UK gives examples such as appointments with your work coach, updating your CV and searching for jobs.
What if I cannot do something in my commitment?
Contact DWP straight away through your journal or the details your work coach gave you. If DWP decides you had a good reason, your payment is not reduced.
Can my claimant commitment change?
Yes. Report changes in your circumstances so that your commitment is based on your current situation.
Related guides
Your jobcentre appointment
Why you are called in, how it works and what happens on the day.
What to bring: ID documents
1 photo ID plus 2 supplementary documents, all originals.
Missed or late for an appointment
What to do straight away and what "good reason" means.
Universal Credit sanctions
Levels, how long they last and the daily reduction rates.
How to claim Universal Credit
Apply online, the 28-day rule and what you need to have ready.
New Style JSA and ESA
Helplines for new claims and existing claims.
Sources: GOV.UK: Universal Credit, how to claim · GOV.UK: Universal Credit sanctions. Jobcentre Offices is independent and not affiliated with the DWP or Jobcentre Plus. Rules and rates change: confirm on GOV.UK or with your work coach before you act.