Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, in what circumstances a first full universal credit payment can be paid within two weeks.

A first full Universal Credit payment cannot be paid within two weeks of making a claim, however, a claimant can apply for an advance of up to 50% of their Universal Credit payment during this period. We have recently refreshed our work coach guidance to make sure work coaches discuss advances with claimants who need them.