Overview
- The DWP’s latest alert urges Universal Credit users to update living arrangements through their online account, stressing that cohabiting partners must claim as a couple rather than as single claimants.
- Officials say keeping details current helps ensure the correct award and warn that non-reporting can result in recoverable overpayments.
- Universal Credit claimants are reminded to report nearly 20 types of changes, including new contact details, bank accounts, address moves, rent increases or decreases, and health or earnings updates.
- DWP guidance notes that a change can affect payment for an entire assessment period, and overpayments may arise if changes are reported late or information is incorrect.
- Pension Credit recipients are told to notify ten key changes such as moving house or in with a partner, with rules stating that living with a partner below State Pension age usually stops Pension Credit until they reach that age; the department advises calling the Pension Service helpline if unsure.