Universal Credit claimants are being warned they face being hit with a fine, or even taken to court, if they fail to tell the DWP of a number of changes.
How much Universal Credit a person receives depends on their individual circumstances, including age, whether they live in a couple, and whether they have children. People receive a "standard allowance", which pays monthly rates ranging from £265.31 to £525.75, then additional amounts on top in line with the number of children they have, disabilities, and so on.
But, while this benefit can provide a vital boost to a person’s income, it’s essential for people to be on top of their applications to avoid facing a severe penalty, the Express reports.
READ MORE: DWP claimants could soon be handed extra £774 each
A statement on the DWP website reads: “[Universal Credit claimants] 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.”
The DWP lists 13 important changes in circumstance a person must report, which could largely impact their entitlement to the benefit. Those claiming or applying for Universal Credit must report the following changes to the DWP:
- If the person is finding or finishing a job
- If the person is having a child
- If the person is moving in with their partner
- If they are starting to care for a child or disabled person
- Mobile number or email address changes
- A new home address
- Bank detail changes
- If their rent is going up or down
- Health condition changes
- If they are becoming too ill to work or meet their work coach
- Changes to earnings (only if they’re self-employed)
- Changes to savings, investments and how much money they have
- Changes to immigration status if they’re not a British citizen
If a person doesn’t report a change or a mistake, they might be paid too much and in this case, they might have to pay some of the money back. People can report a change of circumstances by signing in to their Universal Credit account.
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