DWP benefits that could be cut in Autumn Budget - Universal Credit to Jobseeker's Allowance

The Chancellor of the Exchequer will deliver the Budget on October 30 and a number of changes could be announced that affect people on benefits

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is poised to reveal her first Budget later this month, which could bring significant changes for those on benefits. Among those who will be most concerned are benefits claimants - with reports some DWP hand-outs could be in the firing line.

Set to outline the Government's fiscal strategy on October 30, the Chancellor has already signalled that tough choices may be on the horizon concerning taxes, spending, and potentially benefits.

Back in early September, Ms Reeves hinted at a challenging Budget ahead, citing "difficult decisions" that could impact tax, spending, and benefits. She has also spoken of a daunting £22billion deficit in the nation's finances, attributing it to the previous Tory leadership, a revelation that has led many to brace for potential hardships for those struggling financially.

Read more: 'New version' of Winter Fuel Payment

Speculation is rife that the Chancellor may look to trim the welfare budget, a notion seemingly reinforced by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's recent remarks.

Speaking at the Labour Party conference in Liverpool, the PM emphasised the need for "trade-offs" to balance welfare provision with support for those in need, acknowledging the inevitability of "hard cases" but advocating for a collaborative effort between the Government and businesses to boost employment.

The number of long-term sick individuals has ballooned to approximately 2.8 million post-pandemic, raising concerns about the future of working-age benefits, with Health Secretary Wes Streeting also alluding to possible cuts and tax increases.

Working-age benefits are crucial for providing financial aid to individuals and families within the working age bracket. There are various types such as Universal Credit, Jobseeker's Allowance, and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).

Speaking to the New Statesman, Mr Streeting suggested that the Chancellor might slash these benefits in an attempt to fill the £22 billion deficit in government finances. This follows the Labour administration's decision to scrap the £300 Winter Fuel Payment for pensioners not receiving means-tested benefits.

Mr Streeting remarked: "There are other choices to come and these aren't just Rachel's choices to face up to, these are the choices of the whole government."