The measures apply across England, Scotland and Wales, with financial institutions required to provide specified details when issued an Eligibility Verification Notice. According to DWP guidance, the rules do not permit officials to access online banking accounts directly or examine how claimants spend their money.
Bank Account Details Covered by the DWP’s New Eligibility Checks
The checks operate through the Eligibility Verification Measure (EVM), which allows the DWP to provide financial institutions with indicators linked to benefit eligibility rules. Banks then examine relevant accounts to establish whether those indicators are met.
Where an account meets an indicator, the institution can disclose certain information to the department. This includes account holders’ names, account numbers, sort codes where applicable, and information about balances.
The rules also cover linked accounts, joint accounts and accounts belonging to individuals other than the benefit claimant. Banks may additionally provide dates of transactions carried out in another country.
There are restrictions on what can be disclosed. Financial institutions cannot supply complete bank statements, detailed transaction records or information showing how individuals spend their money.
Specific transaction locations are also excluded, alongside sensitive personal information concerning matters such as religious beliefs or political opinions.
According to the DWP, the measure does not provide live access to bank accounts or allow officials to log into customers’ online banking services. Financial institutions risk fines if they disclose information beyond what the rules permit. The department says information received that is not directly relevant to a claimant will be destroyed under its Information Management Policy.
Benefit Claim Reviews, Payment Decisions and Claimant Responsibilities
Information provided through the checks may prompt the DWP to examine whether someone remains eligible for benefits or is receiving the correct amount.
A review does not automatically mean payments will stop. Officials may contact the claimant to request clarification or supporting evidence before determining whether further enquiries are necessary.
According to the department’s guidance, claimants with online accounts will receive messages through their online journal. Others may be contacted by telephone, letter or text message.
Recipients are advised to respond promptly, as failing to provide requested information could result in payments being delayed or stopped. Decisions about benefit entitlement and payments will be made by DWP staff rather than artificial intelligence. Claimants who disagree with a decision can request a mandatory reconsideration.
The department also reminds recipients to report changes affecting their circumstances, including savings, investments, income, household arrangements and address details. One-off payments, including gifts, refunds or compensation, may also need reporting, alongside periods spent outside England, Scotland or Wales.
Failure to provide accurate information or report relevant changes could lead to repayment demands, fines or prosecution in some cases. The measures operate under the Fraud, Error and Recovery Act 2025, with safeguards governing the handling of personal data. An independent reviewer will assess compliance with the legislation, including the conduct of the DWP and financial institutions, with reports presented to Parliament.
