DWP issues 'high alert' to millions claiming these two benefit payouts

Thousands of people who receive PIP and ESA may be automatically moved onto Universal Credit once the "managed migration" strategy gets underway.

People claiming two benefits have been issued a warning as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) gears up to shift benefit recipients onto Universal Credit. Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claimants should prepare for a swift change.

Following the DWP's 'managed migration' plan, experts are advising people that receive ESA and PIP benefits to stay vigilant. Spencer Churchill weighs in with an important heads-up, and says: "It's crucial for people on these benefits to pay attention to any letters from the DWP. You have three months from the date of your letter to make a claim, otherwise, you could lose your entitlements entirely.

"If you are worse off under Universal Credit, you may be entitled to a top-up called transitional protection, which will cover the difference." Additionally, they urged people to immediately respond or risk losing their benefit entitlement: "However, this protection is only available if you respond to the DWP's Migration Notice in time and make your claim before the deadline.

"Any changes in circumstances could also impact how much you receive. The process of managed migration is already underway, and those affected by the changes need to ensure they act quickly."

Failing to reply within the specified three-month period to the correspondence from the DWP poses a serious threat to vital financial support that many rely on. Swift action is required to secure your payment under the new system. Spencer Churchill explains: "Failing to respond to the DWP letter within three months risks losing the support you've relied on. The sooner you make the switch, the sooner your current payments can be protected under Universal Credit, including any transitional protection that might apply."

Reports have revealed that over 3.6 million individuals receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) could find out as early as next week if changes proposed in the 'Modernising support for independent living: the health and disability green paper' will be implemented by the new Labour Government.

The suggested overhaul of the benefits system, which includes scrapping the Work Capability Assessment and introducing a unified assessment method for all benefit claims, has resulted in over 16,000 online applications.

After the consultation ended on July 22, Minister for Social Security and Disabilities, Sir Stephen Timms MP, commented that while the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is evaluating the responses, they are "considering our own approach to social security in due course".