Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) - Universal Credit Service Centre (Northern Ireland)
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Universal Credit Service Centre in Northern Ireland provides support for new and ongoing Universal Credit claims. Services include assistance with claim management, reporting changes in circumstances, and answering general enquiries for residents. The centre operates Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00 and on Saturday from 09:00 to 13:00. Callers should be prepared for identity verification and may experience long wait times, especially during peak hours or benefit payment dates. It is advisable to call during off-peak hours for quicker service.
Updated 15 Dec 2025
Expected outcomes
- Start a new Universal Credit claim
- Manage existing Universal Credit claim
- Report changes in circumstances
- Verify claim status
- Request information on eligibility
Call preparation
Assemble everything before you dial. These requirements are verified by our call analysts and updated as organizations change their scripts.
- National Insurance number
- Personal identification
- Income details
- Housing information
- Details of change
- Supporting documents
Known issues
Callers often experience long wait times, especially during peak hours and around benefit payment dates. To mitigate this, it is recommended to call during off-peak hours or use the online services when possible. Additionally, some callers report difficulty reaching knowledgeable staff, often being transferred multiple times. To address this, ensure you have all required information ready and request escalation if the initial contact cannot resolve your issue. Preparing thoroughly can help streamline the process and reduce frustration.
