Brits are being warned that failure to notify the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) of specific changes could lead to their payments being suspended. Latest figures from the DWP show that by the end of December, around 8.4 million individuals across England, Scotland and Wales were receiving Universal Credit, regardless of employment status.
As reported by the Daily Record, almost 20 different changes must be reported, including acquiring a new mobile number or email address, switching to a different bank account, moving to a new address and experiencing rent increases or decreases.
Official DWP guidance available on GOV.UK 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. »
Changes requiring DWP notification
According to DWP guidance on GOV.UK, reporting changes in circumstances is essential to ensure you continue receiving the correct monthly amount.
The guidance emphasises that changes must be reported « as soon as they happen » as any postponement « may mean you receive too much money and will have to make a repayment ».
The DWP cautions: « Changes in your circumstances can affect how much you’re paid for your whole assessment period – not just from the date you report them. »
How to report a change
DWP advises that claimants can report a change of circumstances by signing in to their online Universal Credit account.
If you get a job or increase the hours you work
Use a benefits calculator or speak with your work coach to find out how getting a job or an increase in your earnings might affect your Universal Credit claim.
Most employers will report your earnings for you. You will normally only need to report monthly earnings if you are self-employed.
If you have been paid too much by DWP
You may have to repay the money if you:
- did not report a change straight away
- gave wrong information
- were overpaid by mistake
Full details about benefit overpayments can be found on GOV.UK here.
