Millions of benefits claimants are being warned they could face action if they don't report some important changes. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is reminding the 6.2 million people claiming universal credit what to do if their circumstances change.
Universal credit claimants get their payments monthly and there are a number of things that you need to inform the government about which could affect the money you receive. To get the latest money stories straight to your inbox twice a week sign up to our newsletter here.
Some changes are minor, such as having a new mobile number or email address. There are a list of things that you still have to tell the department about - otherwise you could face court or a fine. Here are all the changes in circumstances you need to report to the DWP.
READ MORE: Martin Lewis' urgent warning for anyone over 16 providing unpaid care
According to the government website, the DWP says: “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.” You must report these changes as soon as they occur or you could receive too much money and have to repay it. The changes are:
- finding a job
- finishing a job
- having a child
- moving in with your partner
- starting to care for a child
- starting to care for a disabled person
- changing your mobile number
- changing your email address
- moving to a new address
- changing your bank details
- your rent going up or down
- changes to your health condition
- becoming too ill to work or meet your work coach
- changes to your earnings - only if you’re self-employed
- changes to your savings, investments and how much money you have
- changes to your immigration status, if you’re not a British citizen
You can report a change of circumstances through your universal credit account on GOV.UK. Find out everything you need to know about doing this here.
Join the WalesOnline WhatsApp community
WalesOnline has launched a new breaking news and top stories WhatsApp community. From the biggest court stories to the latest traffic updates, weather warnings and breaking news, it's a simple way to stay up to date with what's happening in Wales.
Want to join? All you have to do is click on this link, select 'Join Community' and you're in. We will not spam your feed with constant messages, but you will receive updates from us daily.
If for some reason you decide you no longer want to be in our community, you can leave by clicking on the name at the top of your screen and clicking 'Exit Group'. We occasionally treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can read our Privacy Notice here.
