Assess means-tested benefits on individual income rather than household income — 13 signatures. Status: rejected.
We call on the Government to reform means-tested welfare benefits, such as Universal Credit, so that eligibility and award amounts are assessed on individual income and savings rather than joint household income.
Currently, individuals applying for means-tested benefits must include their partner’s income and capital, forcing joint claims. Working individuals are assessed on their personal income for tax purposes, and the same principle of individual assessment should apply to means-tested benefits. The current system creates financial dependency on partners, leaves vulnerable individuals at risk of financial control or abuse, and prevents individuals unable to work from retaining financial independence.
View this petition on the official UK Parliament website