Little known DWP rule that could see Universal Credit 'cut overnight' explainedRecipients could unintentionally breach this ruleView 2 Images Your Universal Credit payments could be slashed if your account exceeds £2,500 (Image: RealPeopleGroup via Getty Images)A lesser-known DWP rule means certain benefits recipients could end up missing out on payments. ‌However, the lesser-known surplus earnings rule states that if an individual's income suddenly exceeds £2,500 in an assessment period, they "will get no Universal Credit". ‌The Department for Work and Pensions confirmed: "You will not get any Universal Credit until your earnings, including the amount that's carried over, go under the limit and you become entitled to Universal Credit again. If your wages reduce enough for you to be eligible for Universal Credit within 5 months, your Universal Credit payment will be automatically restarted. If one party submits a new single or joint Universal Credit application, only their share will affect their entitlement.