The Department for Work and Pensions has issued clarity over its reasons for reviewing millions of Universal Credit claims across UK. The DWP reviews are expected to continue until 2030 and have been ongoing since 2022.
A Facebook group called ‘Universal Credit Help’, which has close to 60,000 members, saw a post uploaded from someone who had been sent a message on their Universal Credit account in the wake of Christmas and the New Year.
The message read: “We are reviewing your Universal Credit claim to make sure your payments are correct. As part of the review you will need to send us information to confirm your details.” The user captioned the post: “What’s this about please? Me and partner both got it today.”
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The DWP has issued an update, saying: “Since 2022, we have been reviewing Universal Credit claims across the country to make sure customers are receiving the right payment and support, and preventing people from falling into debt.
“To ensure claims are up to date, customers are being asked to provide certain information which can be securely uploaded to their Universal Credit account. For customers with complex needs, additional support is offered to assist with providing any information required.”
On its website, the DWP states: “Your Universal Credit claim might be reviewed to make sure you’re getting the right payment and support. If your claim is going to be reviewed, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will contact you and let you know through your online account. You’ll need to send DWP some documents to confirm your details and have a phone interview.”
You’ll get a message in your online account asking to see your ID and bank statements. You might also need to share documents about your circumstances and the amount of Universal Credit you’re getting.