The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a warning to Universal Credit claimants planning a summer getaway. There are crucial rules that must be followed to avoid having payments stopped or reduced. If you receive Universal Credit and fail to report your trip abroad to the DWP, it could lead to your payments being slashed.
It may even result in an investigation for benefit fraud. Not declaring your holiday as a change of circumstance could also lead to a hefty fine. The penalties range anywhere from £350 to £5,000.
Universal Credit recipients can stay abroad for one month and continue receiving payments. However, they must inform their work coach of the trip and continue meeting the conditions of their claim. This means if you are in the intensive work group, you must still spend the required minimum hours per week looking for a job, even while abroad.
There are some exceptions, such as if you’re abroad for medical treatment, in which case you can stay up to six months.
Travel rules for Universal Credit claimants
To report a change in circumstances, Universal Credit claimants can record it on their online journal or contact the helpline at 0800 328 5644.
They can also get in touch with their local Jobcentre Plus. Recipients of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) must contact the enquiry line at 0800 121 4433. Someone else can call on their behalf, but the recipient needs to be present during the call.
Going abroad without informing the DWP is not the only reason Universal Credit payments could be stopped. Other reasons include failing to apply for jobs, rejecting job offers, quitting a job without a good reason, missing Jobcentre appointments, and refusing to take work in a different field. If you’ve been sanctioned, you can appeal by requesting a mandatory reconsideration within one month of the decision.
Appeals or changes can be submitted in writing to:
DWP Complaints
Post Handling Site B
Wolverhampton
WV99 2GY
Staying compliant with the rules while receiving Universal Credit is essential, especially when planning to travel abroad. Always report any changes in circumstances to avoid potential sanctions and penalties. For help or more information, contact the relevant helplines.
Image Credits: Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
