Research and analysis

Self-Employed Tax Credit Claimants Research

This report presents the findings of research into the knowledge and attitudes of self-employed Tax Credit claimants regarding Universal Credit.

• From: Department for Work and Pensions
• Published: 7 October 2024

Documents

Self Employed Tax Credit Claimants Research​ ​ Phase 1

Ref: ISBN 978-1-78659-735-9, ad hoc RR 101

PDF, 4.11 MB, 37 pages

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Self Employed Tax Credit Claimants Research​ ​ Phase 2

Ref: ISBN 978-1-78659-735-9, ad hoc RR 101

PDF, 625 KB, 38 pages

This file may not be suitable for users of assistive technology.

Request an accessible format.

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Details

This project explored the knowledge and attitudes of self-employed Tax Credit claimants regarding Universal Credit (UC) in 2021-2022. Phase 1 consisted of a set of qualitative interviews to offer insight into claimants’ opinions, feelings, and behaviours towards a move to UC. Phase 2 involved qualitative message testing with current self-employed Tax Credit claimants via focus groups. This provided us with the opportunity to explore claimants’ thoughts, feelings and reactions towards different messaging. 

Research background 

UC self-employment policy and support offer is different from previous government policy for the self-employed, including existing HMRC policy. As such, ensuring that claimants are well-informed about their move to Universal Credit and what to expect, particularly as a self-employed person, is vital for promoting the best outcomes for people when they move to UC. This research focused on this specific evidence need around self-employed Tax Credit claimants’ knowledge and attitudes around UC.  

Contribution to the evidence base  

This research contributed to the wider evidence base on Move to UC. It provided DWP with insight into a specific group: self-employed Tax Credit claimants’ engagement with UC and UC related messaging. 

Research value 

The evidence we gathered from this research helped inform the Move to UC process for self-employed Tax Credit claimants. It also supported thinking on the wider Move to UC process, including the Department’s communication and messaging.

ISBN: 978-1-78659-735-9

Report number: ad hoc RR 101

Published 7 October 2024