Payroll is working to include the 2025/26 pay increase and backdated pay in the September pay for all SJC and Craft employees.

As a result, your take-home pay in September will be higher than normal. 

If your take-home pay changes within your assessment period so does the amount of Universal Credit you receive.

Because September’s pay will be higher than normal due to the increase and backdated pay, you may find: 

• the amount of Universal Credit you receive is lower than normal, or 
• your Universal Credit award is reduced to £0  
  Important: If your payment is reduced to £0 for six months in a row, your claim may close automatically.  

As Universal Credit is based on your own personal circumstances, the Council does not know if you may be affected. 

If your claim does close due to a higher September wage: 

• you will see a message on your Universal Credit Journal telling you this has happened 
• payments do not restart automatically, you must reclaim to receive future payments  
  Important: You should do this as soon as you can to make sure you do not miss out. 

To restart your claim: 

• log into your Universal Credit Journal
• select the 'Reclaim’ tab at the bottom of the screen
• answer a few simple questions.

If you are having trouble restarting your claim, contact: 

•  Work Coach  
• Jobcentre Plus  
• 📞 Universal Credit Helpline: 0800 328 5644
• 🌐 More info: www.gov.uk/universal-credit 

If Universal Credit sends rent payments direct to your landlord, including Falkirk Council, registered social or private landlord, on your behalf, this payment may also be affected.  

If your Universal Credit is reduced in October, you’ll need to pay your rent from the increased wages you have received in September.

If you have questions regarding changes to your rent payment: 

• 📞 01324 506070
• Choose Option 4, then Option 2.