DWP warns people they could face fines or court if they don't report these 16 things

Wales Online

18 hours ago

DWP warns people they could face fines or court if they don't report these 16 things
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has certain rules for those who claim universal credit, particularly around changes in circumstances
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has outlined specific rules for anyone claiming universal credit (library image of people walking in Swanse)
(Image: John Myers )
Benefit claimants are being urged to stay vigilant of a raft of changes they must report to avoid penalties or court action. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has outlined specific rules for universal credit recipients.
More than six million people in the UK on low incomes receive the benefit, but many are unaware of the obligations to inform the department of certain changes. Failure to do so, or providing incorrect information, could lead to fines or legal proceedings.
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Particularly relevant for those planning holidays this summer, it's crucial to understand what needs to be communicated if you have travel plans.
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Why should I notify the DWP about changes in my situation?
The DWP insists that reporting changes in circumstances is critical to ensure claimants receive the correct payment each month, as benefits are calculated based on individual situations. For money-saving tips, sign up to our Money newsletter here
These updates must be reported "as soon as they happen" as delays "may mean you receive too much money and will have to make a repayment".
"Changes in your circumstances can affect how much you're paid for your whole assessment period – not just from the date you report them," states DWP guidance. The government website further warns: "You could be taken to court or have to pay a penalty if you give wrong information or do not report a change in your circumstances."
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The changes you need to inform the department of are:
securing a job
ending a job
having a child
moving in with your partner
beginning to care for a child
starting to look after a disabled person
changing your mobile number
updating your email address
relocating to a new address
altering your bank details
your rent increasing or decreasing
changes to your health condition
becoming too ill to work or meet your work coach
changes to your earnings (only if you're self-employed)
changes to your savings, investments, and the amount of money you have
changes to your immigration status if you're not a British citizen
If you travel abroad, you can continue to receive universal credit for one month. You must be eligible for universal credit when you're going abroad, remain eligible for it while you're abroad, and also inform your work coach that you're leaving.
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If a close relative passes away while you're abroad and it would not be reasonable for you to return to the UK, you can receive universal credit for one more month. You cannot receive universal credit if you're moving abroad permanently and you cannot apply for it if you're already abroad.
How do I report changes?
You can report a change of circumstances through your universal credit account on GOV.UK. Find out everything you need to know about doing this here.