Introduction
Are you receiving Universal Credit and unsure about when to report changes in your circumstances? This guide will help you understand the key changes you need to notify the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and how they can affect your payments. Staying informed is crucial to ensuring you receive the right support.
If you receive Universal Credit, it’s important to keep the DWP updated about any changes in your life. These changes, known as “changes of circumstances,” can impact the amount of Universal Credit you receive, as well as the work-related activities you are required to undertake in return for your payments.
Here’s a guide to the key changes you should report and how to do it.
When to Report Changes
Whenever something significant happens in your life—whether it’s related to work, finances, or your family—you should inform the DWP as soon as possible. Reporting changes promptly ensures you don’t miss out on any potential increases in your Universal Credit payments.
If you anticipate that a change might reduce your payment, it’s still crucial to report it right away. Delaying could lead to overpayments, which you would have to pay back later, possibly with additional penalties.
What Changes Should You Report?
Here are some common changes that you need to notify the DWP about:
Job Changes
- Starting or Leaving a Job: Always inform the DWP if you start or leave a job, even if it’s voluntary work. Your earnings can affect your Universal Credit, but they also might reduce the work-related activities you need to do.
- Changes in Employment Status: If you lose your job, your Universal Credit may increase, but you might need to spend more time seeking new employment.
Financial Changes
- Bank Details: If you change your bank account, let the DWP know.
- New Benefits: If you start claiming any new benefits, report this, as it may affect your Universal Credit.
- Savings: If your savings exceed £6,000, your Universal Credit payments will decrease; if they exceed £16,000, you will no longer be eligible.
Housing Changes
- Moving Home: Always inform the DWP if you move, as this can affect your housing payments. If you are moving and need to redirect your mail, you might be eligible for a concessionary discount if you receive Universal Credit. Find out how to get a discount on mail redirection on Royal Mail’s website.
- Changes in Rent: If your rent increases or decreases, report this change.
- Household Changes: If someone moves in or out of your home, you need to notify the DWP.
Relationship Changes
- Living with a Partner: If you move in with a partner or split up, you must inform the DWP. This will likely change your Universal Credit payments.
- Child Responsibility: Make sure the DWP knows who is responsible for any children in your care.
Health Changes
- Illness or Injury: If you become ill or injured and it affects your ability to work, report it. You may need to provide a “fit note” from your doctor.
- Hospital or Care Home Stays: Notify the DWP if you or your partner goes into or leaves a hospital or care home.
Education Changes
- Starting or Stopping Education: If you or any of your children start or stop full-time education, inform the DWP. This can affect your eligibility for Universal Credit.
Deaths in the Family
If someone close to you, such as a partner or child, passes away, you need to inform the DWP. You can use the Tell Us Once service to notify various government departments.
Immigration Status Changes
Your eligibility for Universal Credit may change based on your immigration status. Ensure you keep the DWP informed if there are any changes in this area.
How to Report Changes
You can report changes to your circumstances in a few ways:
- Online: If you have an online Universal Credit account, you can report changes directly through the ‘Report a change’ section.
- Phone: If you don’t have an online account, you can call the Universal Credit helpline at 0800 328 5644 (calls are free). If you need assistance in Welsh, call 0800 328 1744.
Additional Support
If you have any questions about how to report changes or what might affect your Universal Credit, don’t hesitate to reach out to your work coach. They can provide guidance tailored to your situation.
Conclusion
Staying on top of your Universal Credit information is essential for ensuring you receive the correct amount of support. If you’re unsure whether a change is significant enough to report, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and let the DWP know. Keeping them informed can help you avoid potential issues and ensure you get the financial support you need.
If you’re curious about your future financial planning, you can also check your State Pension age on GOV.UK for additional insights.
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