DWP error could see benefit payments stopped with 'hundreds of people' impacted

The error has affected a “small” number of people who are being moved over to Universal Credit from their current legacy benefit Employment Support Allowance (ESA)

Hundreds of households have been left out of pocket due to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) error.

The error has affected a “small” number of people who are being moved over to Universal Credit from their current legacy benefit, Employment Support Allowance (ESA), according to the DWP. However, it has not issued an official number although the Sun reports the figure as being 100.

The benefits department is currently working to move those claiming older-style benefits onto Universal Credit. Under the plans, the DWP is sending letters - which are called “Migration Notices” - to those needing to switch. Once you get one, you need to put in a claim within three months or your benefits claim will be stopped.

ESA is a benefit given to people who are unable to work due to illness or disability. Under the “Managed Migration” plans, those claiming this benefit do not need to provide sick notes to the DWP when they move to Universal Credit. Similarly, those in the ESA support group should not be asked to undertake any work-related activities, as their Work Capability status should carry over when they migrate over.

Despite these rules, DWP staff have asked ESA claimants to get fit notes from their GPs in some instances, and others have been incorrectly told that they need to agree to new work commitments before making the switch. Those who have been asked were told by DWP staff that if they did not supply a note or agree to new work requirements, then they would be ineligible for limited capability for work and work-related activity (LCWRA) payments.

These extra payments are worth up to £416 a month. ESA claims consist of a standard allowance and an additional component if you are unable to work. This component is either the work-related activity component or the support component and Universal Credit's LCWRA payments are replacing it. This means that if you have already received these extra components under ESA, you should not be required to submit a new fit note or agree to new work requirements to be eligible for LCWRA payments.

Ayla Ozmen, director of policy & campaigns at anti-poverty charity Z2K, said it was "concerning" to hear ESA claimants being told this. They added: "Not only is this unlawful, but it puts disabled people at risk of being inappropriately sanctioned."

A DWP spokesperson said: "We are aware of an issue where a small number of claimants are still being asked to attend a Claimant Commitment appointment and are currently working to resolve the situation. Anyone who thinks they have been affected should contact their work coach."