Hundreds are facing a potential loss of £416 a month due to errors linked to the managed migration process the DWP is undertaking, which will see claimants moved to Universal Credit.

DWP says 'small issue' will mean people on one benefit lose £416 a month

by · Birmingham Live

Hundreds could see benefit payments stopped due to a "small issue". Hundreds are facing a potential loss of £416 a month due to errors linked to the managed migration process the DWP is undertaking, which will see claimants moved to Universal Credit.

An issue arose after a "small number" of the 800,000 Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) recipients encountered problems when applying for Universal Credit. ESA claimants should not be required to provide fit notes during the migration process.

But some claimants are being incorrectly asked to provide fit notes or agree to new work commitments, contrary to DWP rules. Ayla Ozmen, director of policy & campaigns at anti-poverty charity Z2K, said: "It's very concerning to hear that some disabled people on employment and support allowance who are being moved on to Universal Credit are being asked to look for work.

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"Not only is this unlawful, but it puts disabled people at risk of being inappropriately sanctioned." A DWP spokesperson acknowledged the error, stating: "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." Universal Credit is replacing six benefits under the old welfare system, commonly called legacy benefits. They are: Working tax credit, Child tax credit, Income-based jobseeker's allowance, Income support, income-related employment and support allowance and Housing benefit.

If you're on any of these benefits now, you can move over immediately or wait until you receive your migration notice. You may also be moved to Universal Credit if your circumstances change, such as moving home, changing your working hours, or having a baby.

Everyone will be transitioned to Universal Credit through the managed migration process, and all legacy benefits will be phased out by 2025.