Universal Credit When You’re Self-Employed: Start-Up Periods and the Minimum Income Floor

Universal Credit treats self-employed people differently from employees. This course explains the gainful self-employment test, the 12-month start-up period, the Minimum Income Floor, monthly reporting of income and expenses, how losses and surplus earnings work, and practical tips for managing an irregular business income on Universal Credit.

Tutwoo is an independent learning provider. This course gives general information based on published official guidance for the 2026/27 tax year (6 April 2026 to 5 April 2027). It is not personal financial, tax or legal advice. For help with your own situation, contact HMRC, MoneyHelper, Citizens Advice or a regulated adviser.

© 2026 Tutwoo UK Limited. This course was created in-house by Tutwoo and is our original work. It is for your own learning only: please do not copy, share, record or resell it.