Schools are out and millions of households are eyeing their summer trip abroad, but the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has warned people on Universal Credit or Personal Independence Payment (PIP) to contact it before going overseas.
Spain, Turkey and France are among the cheapest and most popular destinations for Brits, but the DWP is urging people on either benefit to make sure they do not break the rules if going on a trip this summer.
Benefits rules allow a holiday of up to one month, although conditions still apply during that period.
Reporting a change in circumstances
Claimants must inform the DWP about any change in circumstances, including the country they are staying in. The DWP sets out in its guidance: "You need to report changes to your circumstances so you keep getting the right amount each month. You need to report changes as soon as they happen. Any delay may mean you receive too much money and will have to make a repayment."
"Changes in your circumstances can affect how much you're paid for your whole assessment period - not just from the date you report them."
Anyone filing a new claim for Universal Credit must be in the UK on the day the claim is made. To comply with Universal Credit and remain eligible, claimants may be expected to do things like job hunting or attend an interview, which would be difficult if they are not in the country.
PIP rules for absences abroad
For people on PIP, the DWP states: "We will need to know the date the claimant is leaving the country, how long they are planning to be out of the country, which country they are going to and why they are going abroad."
"We need to know if the claimant's condition, the amount of help they need or their circumstances change. This is because it may change how much PIP they can get. It is important the claimant tells DWP straight away about any changes in their life that could affect their benefit. Based on these changes their benefit may go up, go down, stay the same or it may stop. If the claimant is overpaid, they will normally have to repay the money. Failure to tell DWP about any of these changes may result in prosecution."
A temporary absence abroad of up to 13 weeks may be allowed, or up to 26 weeks if the absence is specifically for medical treatment. Claimants should notify the DWP if they plan to go abroad for four weeks or more.
Penalties and how to report
"You could be taken to court or have to pay a penalty if you give wrong information or do not report a change in your circumstances."
The DWP also advises that failing to report changes promptly could lead to a requirement to repay some of the benefit received. Claimants can inform the PIP enquiry line of any changes by calling 0800 121 4433.
