Petition · Department for Work and Pensions
Allow UC claimants with start-up-businesses to receive payments for 3 years
Open for signatures
239 signatures
What the petition asks
Change the law to allow people on Universal Credit who start and run a business to continue to receive payments for 3 years. This could give them time to build income and stability before benefits are reduced. This could encourage self-employment, growth, and independence from Universal Credit.
Currently, people on Universal Credit risk losing benefits after 12 months, making it difficult for many to move forward. A 3-year grace period could let them build sustainable businesses, increase confidence, and create future jobs. Many may later leave Universal Credit altogether, saving money long-term and giving people real opportunities to succeed.
Timeline
| 12 Mar 2026 | Petition opened for signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
239
Status
Open for signatures
Department
Department for Work and Pensions
Opened
12 Mar 2026
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 26 Jul 2026.