DWP could take Universal Credit claimants to court if they fail to do one thing

Universal Credit claimants could be taken to court if they fail to report any of 19 specific changes to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). 

With the festive season approaching, it’s important to note that Jobcentre Plus offices and DWP helpline hours will be adjusted.

Among nearly two dozen reportable changes are updates to contact details, bank accounts, home addresses and changes in rent.

Official guidance on GOV.UK cautions: “You could be taken to court or face a penalty if you provide incorrect information or fail to report a change in your circumstances.”

It also emphasises reporting changes “as soon as they happen” to ensure accurate Universal Credit payments and to avoid repaying any overpayments, as reported by the Daily Record.

The DWP further reminds claimants: “Changes in your circumstances can impact how much you’re paid for your entire assessment period—not just from the date you report them.”

DWP advises that claimants can report a change of circumstances by signing in to their online Universal Credit account. As already mentioned, Jobcentre Plus offices and phone lines opening hours are changing over the festive fortnight.

New figures from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) show there were 7.2 million people across Scotland, England and Wales receiving financial support through Universal Credit in October.

Having a child

Changing your mobile number

Changes to your health condition

Starting to care for a child

Your child stopping or restarting education or training, if they’re aged 16 to 19

Your rent going up or down

Starting to care for a disabled person

Going outside Northern Ireland for any length of time, if you live there

Changes to your earnings (only if you’re self-employed)

Moving in with your partner

Changing your email address

Moving to a new address

Changing your bank details

Changes to your savings, investments and how much money you have

Finishing a job

Finding a job

Going outside Great Britain for any length of time, if you live there

Becoming too ill to work or meet your work coach

Changes to your immigration status, if you’re not a British citizen