A Universal Credit claimant has raised concerns about whether taking a week-long holiday abroad could affect their benefits. The individual, who has a seven-day trip planned for July, is unsure about the rules and whether they need to inform the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) of their travel plans.
Key Questions from the Claimant
The claimant, speaking on Reddit, asked several questions: Can they take a holiday while on Universal Credit? What happens if an appointment is scheduled during their holiday? Do they need to inform UC about the trip if no appointments are booked? And will the holiday affect their claim in any way?
Expert Advice
One respondent advised using the 'report a change' section in the UC account to provide holiday dates, which ensures no appointments are booked during that time. However, another warned that claimants must still meet work search requirements and demonstrate job-seeking efforts at their next appointment to avoid sanctions. They must also remain available for interviews and starting work if offered.
DWP Guidance
A DWP spokesperson confirmed that Universal Credit claimants are allowed to go abroad for up to one month. They should inform the department of any time spent outside the country. Claimants are still expected to comply with work-related requirements, including being available for work and attending interviews where appropriate. If a claimant informs the DWP in advance, work coaches can adjust appointments, such as offering telephone or video calls, and tailor requirements to suit the claimant's circumstances.
Sanctions are only applied if a mandatory requirement is missed without good reason, and all individual circumstances are considered before any decision is made.
