The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has released updated guidance for Universal Credit claimants planning holidays this year. The announcement clarifies the circumstances under which claimants can continue receiving benefits while travelling abroad, particularly during the spring and summer holiday seasons.
Traveling with Universal Credit: Essential Guidelines for Claimants
Claimants can receive Universal Credit for up to one month while abroad, provided they meet the following conditions:
- They must remain eligible for Universal Credit throughout their time overseas.
- They are required to inform their work coach of their travel plans in advance.
- Eligibility must be retained during the trip.
In cases where a close relative passes away while the claimant is abroad, and it is deemed unreasonable for them to return to the UK, payments may be extended for an additional month.
Exceptions to Universal Credit Eligibility for Overseas Claimants
Universal Credit cannot be claimed by individuals who are permanently moving abroad or those who are already overseas. However, there are exceptions for claimants in specific circumstances:
- Medical Treatment or Recovery: Claimants can receive the benefit for up to six months if they travel abroad for approved medical treatment or recovery, known as approved convalescence. This also applies if they accompany a partner or child who is receiving such treatment.
- Work-Related Travel: Special rules apply to civil servants, diplomats, and members of the armed forces. Those posted abroad due to work duties may continue to claim Universal Credit, provided the UK was their primary residence immediately before their posting, and they were deemed habitually resident in the UK.
- Mariners and Continental Shelf Workers: Individuals in these professions can continue to receive Universal Credit for up to six months, assuming they are eligible at the time of departure.
Notification and Compliance: Responsibilities for Claimants Traveling Abroad
Travellers must notify their work coach before leaving the UK. During the trip, claimants must adhere to the tasks outlined in their claimant commitment, which will be determined and communicated by their work coach.
Transparency and Accountability: Avoiding Benefit Fraud
DWP officials have issued a stark warning against benefit fraud, emphasising the importance of accurate reporting. Claimants are required to inform the relevant office of their travel plans, even for short visits abroad. Failing to do so, or deliberately withholding information about changes in circumstances while abroad – such as buying property, working, or claiming overseas pensions or benefits – constitutes fraud.
The DWP’s statement underlines the need for transparency and adherence to the rules, ensuring that Universal Credit is provided only to those who meet the required criteria.
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