The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed the rules for Universal Credit claimants who plan to go on holiday, warning that payments could be stopped if they are not followed. People receiving Universal Credit are being urged to understand these regulations to avoid missing out on their benefit payments.
Key Rules for Holidays
According to the DWP, if you are on Universal Credit and travel abroad, you can continue to receive the benefit for up to one month. However, you must meet three conditions: you must be eligible for the benefit before you leave, remain eligible while abroad, and inform your work coach about your travel plans.
It is crucial to adhere to these rules because claimants have accepted a 'claimant commitment' when they applied for the benefit. Failing to comply with any part of this commitment can result in a reduction or complete stoppage of payments, known as a sanction.
Work Coach Appointments
Many claimants are required to attend regular appointments at the jobcentre or by phone with a work coach. These appointments help with job searches, training, and finding local work. If you miss an appointment without a valid reason, you are likely to face a sanction, which will reduce your payment amount.
Medical Treatment Abroad
Different rules apply if you are travelling abroad for medical treatment. In such cases, you can continue to receive Universal Credit for up to six months if you are going for medical treatment, a period of recovery in England, Scotland, or Wales (known as 'approved convalescence'), or to care for a partner or child who is receiving medical treatment or recovering.
The DWP also noted that claimants can stay in the country where the medical treatment took place to recover or care for a partner or child. However, any medical treatment must be provided by a qualified medical professional, and if you are going abroad specifically for a period of recovery, it must be approved by a UK medical professional.
How to Inform the DWP
The most important step is to contact Universal Credit as soon as you know you are travelling. You can do this through your online account or by calling the helpline at 0800 328 5644. Failure to notify them could lead to payment interruptions.
