Universal Credit (UC) claimants risk losing payments if they go on holiday for too long, according to Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) rules. The benefit, which supports people on low incomes or those out of work, continues for up to one month while abroad, but only if the trip is planned for five days or fewer.
The UK Government states that claimants can keep receiving UC for one month abroad provided their absence is no longer than five days. Extensions are possible in exceptional circumstances, such as the death of a close relative, which allows an additional month. However, payments stop if claimants move abroad permanently, and new claims cannot be made from overseas.
Longer absences of up to six months are permitted for medical treatment, recovery, or caring for a partner or child, but must be approved by a qualified medical professional. Claimants are advised to notify Universal Credit as soon as they know they will travel abroad.
Standard UC rates increased in April, with single people aged 25 and over now receiving £424.90 per month, up from £400.14. Couples over 25 get £666.97, while under-25s receive £528.34. Different rules apply to civil servants, diplomats, armed forces members, mariners, and continental shelf workers.
