This ADM memo provides guidance on the Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Act 2026, which comes into force on 6 April 2026. It explains how the change affects entitlement to the Universal Credit child element (CE) and how decision makers should apply the new rules.
Since 6 April 2017, Universal Credit has generally limited the child element to the first two children or qualifying young persons (QYPs) a claimant is responsible for, unless a specific exception applied (the “two‑child limit”). [assets.pub…ice.gov.uk]
What is changing
- From 6 April 2026, the two‑child limit is removed.
- A child element will be payable for every child or QYP the claimant is responsible for.
- Decision makers no longer need to consider:
- the ordering of children or QYPs, or
- whether any two‑child limit exceptions apply.
When the new rules apply
- The child element for all children/QYPs must be included in a Universal Credit award for assessment periods starting on or after 6 April 2026.
- Periods before 6 April 2026 must still be assessed under the old rules, meaning the two‑child limit continues to apply retrospectively
Practical adviser takeaway
- Claims and assessment periods from 6 April 2026 onwards should include a child element for every dependent child.
- No backdating beyond 6 April 2026 where earlier assessment periods are involved.
- Two‑child limit arguments remain relevant only for periods before 6 April 2026.