The DWP could stop people's Universal Credit and other benefits if they fail to report certain changes in their circumstances.
Millions of people could have their benefits stopped because they might be committing benefit fraud unknowingly.
The DWP’s definition of benefit fraud is when “someone obtains state benefit they are not entitled to or deliberately fails to report a change in their personal circumstances.”
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The most common form of benefit fraud is when a person receives unemployment benefits, while working - reports the Daily Record.
Another is when those on benefits claim that they live alone, but they are financially supported by a partner or spouse.
Failing to inform the DWP about a "change of circumstances", for example, that your partner is now living with you, or that you have moved house, or that a relative has died, leaving you some money may also be fraud by omission.
But one of the most overlooked, and easily done, is not telling the DWP of a change in your address.
Benefit payments are made into claimants’ bank or building society accounts, which means many don’t think informing the DWP of a change in their address is important or necessary.
But it could have serious consequences and result in payments being stopped while a fraud investigation is conducted.
Most changes in circumstances can be reported online, so don’t delay in contacting the DWP, HMRC or your local job centre.
Examples of benefit fraud
failing to report that you're working
failing to report a change of address
failing to report the full amount of your income, savings or capital
claiming benefit as a single person when you live with a partner
claiming benefit for an address you don't live at
claiming benefit when you have no right to
What happens if I'm reported?
If you're accused of committing benefit fraud you'll be contacted by the DWP.
A Benefits or Fraud Investigation Officer may visit you to talk about your benefit claim.
Your benefit may be stopped while under investigation. If this happens, you'll get a letter telling you what will happen next.
If proof of benefit fraud is identified:
you may be formally cautioned
an administrative penalty may be imposed
the case may be referred to the Procurator Fiscal with a view to prosecution
The DWP always recovers any fraudulent overpayment.
