Universal Credit claimants have been warned that their payments could be stopped if they go on holiday – here’s what you need to know
Universal Credit recipients could see their payments halted if they decide to jet off on a holiday. Those receiving benefits need to give the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) a heads-up about major circumstance changes, including heading overseas.
Although you can go away for up to four weeks under benefit regulations, it’s crucial to stick to the terms set at the start of your claim. Official guidance states: “You need to report changes to your circumstances so you keep getting the right amount each month. You need to report changes as soon as they happen.
“Any delay may mean you receive too much money and will have to make a repayment.” Moreover: “Changes in your circumstances can affect how much you’re paid for your whole assessment period – not just from the date you report them.”
Furthermore, new Universal Credit claimants have to be in Britain on the day they apply, but going abroad later the same day or coming back from a trip is usually fine. It’s advised that claimants call the Universal Credit lifeline at 0800 238 5644 as soon as possible.
Punishment for not reporting Universal Credit changes to DWP
The DWP said: “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.” Moreover, the department insists that failing to promptly disclose changes could lead to the repayment of benefits.
Deliberate nondisclosure is considered benefit fraud and triggers an investigation. Universal Credit claimants who intentionally withhold changes risk having their support halted during fraud probes and may face Fraud Investigation Officers.
If you’re caught committing or attempting benefit fraud, you will need to pay back any overpaid funds or face court-imposed fines up to £5,000. Plus, your Universal Credit might shrink or stop altogether.
Other Universal Credit changes that need to be reported
Going on holiday is not the only circumstance change that could affect your Universal Credit claim. Official guidance also provides the following changes that need to be reported:
- moving house
- changes to your pension, savings, investments or property
- starting or ending a civil partnership
- you or your partner getting back-pay (sometimes called ‘arrears’) for salary or earnings you’re owed
- changes to the benefits you or anyone else in your house gets
- changing your name or gender
- starting or stopping caring for someone
- changes to other money you get (for example student loans or grants, sick pay or money you get from a charity)
- starting or stopping education, training or an apprenticeship
- your income going up or down
- the death of your partner or someone you live with
- changing your doctor
- people moving into or out of the place you live (for example your partner, a child or lodger)
- planning to go abroad for any length of time
- going into hospital, a care home or sheltered accommodation
- getting married or divorced
- finding or finishing a job, or working different hours
- having a baby
- changes to your immigration status, if you’re not a British citizen
- any changes to your medical condition or disability
Full details can be found here.
