Across the UK, millions of people claim benefits. There are various reasons including unemployment, low income or health reasons. However, anyone claiming benefits should be aware of a reason why the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) could be asking you for money rather than the other way around.
According to a report in Chronicle Live, since October 2012, the DWP has had the power to impose a fixed rate civil penalty on claimants who have been overpaid. Government advice warns anyone could be fined £50, including, if they fail to let the authorities know of a change in circumstances, which could lead to an overpayment.
Changing your name, moving house of having a new addition to your family are just some of things you need to tell the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) about to avoid a £50 fine if you claim Universal Credit or other benefits.
