Thousands of Universal Credit claimants could see their payments affected by an often-overlooked rule regarding holidays. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has strict guidelines on reporting travel plans, and failing to comply could lead to payment delays or even sanctions.
What Is the Universal Credit Holiday Rule?
If you're claiming Universal Credit and planning a trip abroad, you must inform the DWP if you'll be away for more than one month. This rule applies regardless of whether you're traveling for leisure, family visits, or other reasons.
Why Does This Rule Exist?
The DWP requires claimants to be actively seeking work and available for job opportunities in the UK. Extended absences may be seen as a failure to meet these conditions, potentially triggering a review of your claim.
What Happens If You Don't Report Your Holiday?
Failing to notify the DWP about a long trip could result in:
- Payment suspensions
- Delays in receiving benefits
- Potential sanctions reducing your future payments
How to Avoid Problems
To ensure your payments continue without interruption:
- Log into your Universal Credit account before traveling
- Use the journal feature to report your absence
- Provide clear dates of travel and return
- Keep evidence of your return ticket if requested
Remember, short trips (under one month) typically don't need reporting, but it's always best to check your claimant commitment for specific requirements.
