DWP warning as Universal Credit claimants could be taken to court (Image: Getty)
claimants could be taken to court if they fail to report any of 19 specific changes to the
With the festive season approaching, it’s important to note that Jobcentre Plus offices and 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 .
The 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.”
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 () show there were 7.2 million people across Scotland, England and Wales receiving financial support through Universal Credit in October.
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Changes include:
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