DWP rules for claimants going on holiday this summer

As the summer holiday season approaches, benefit claimants are being reminded of some Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) rules they must follow. These regulations apply to millions of people, including those receiving Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payments (PIP).

The rules state that you may need to tell the DWP if you intend to go away for an extended period of time or continue looking for work abroad. In some situations, you may need to refrain from traveling abroad if you are waiting for specific applications to be processed.

With the holiday season just around the corner, it’s important to understand what rules apply to you based on the length of your trip and the benefits you receive.

READ THE FOLLOWING:

Cabot Circus will ‘evolve’ as it aims to become a ‘multi-functional destination’

Small hamlet near Bristol with a pub, dam and ‘amazing’ walks.

Universal Credit travel and holiday rules

The Government has outlined certain changes in circumstances that must be reported to ensure you continue to receive the correct amount of Universal Credit. Failure to do so could result in an overpayment, which would have to be refunded, reports Wales Online. If you are applying for Universal Credit again, you must be in the UK on the day you apply.

You should generally be safe to travel abroad later that day or return from a vacation earlier that day. You can take up to a month’s holiday, but you must comply with the terms of the applicant’s undertaking agreed when you first applied for Universal Credit.

This usually involves providing evidence that you are actively looking for a job, such as posting job applications. In the worst cases, you may be required to return home for a job interview or start work. Changes in circumstances can be reported by calling the Universal Credit Helpline on 0800 328 5644.

Rules for PIP claimants regarding travel and holidays

For those receiving PIP, there are specific details you need to disclose. This includes letting them know if you are leaving the country for a holiday.

The latest advice for PIP recipients states: “We will need to know the date the claimant is leaving the country, how long they intend to be out of the country, which country they are going to and why they are going abroad.”

Leaving the country or intending to do so for more than four weeks – even for a holiday – could affect the amount of PIP you get. The guidance notes: “We need to know if the claimant’s condition, the amount of help they need or their circumstances change.”

“This is because it can change how much PIP I can get. It is important that the claimant tells the DWP immediately about any changes in their life that could affect their benefits.”

“Based on these changes, their benefit may increase, decrease, stay the same or stop. If the claimant is overpaid, they will normally have to repay the money. Failure to notify the DWP of any of these changes may result in prosecution. .”

“A temporary absence abroad of up to 13 weeks or up to 26 weeks may be permitted if the absence is specifically for medical treatment. The applicant must let us know if they intend to go abroad for four weeks or more.”