Kuni Lingston
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a critical warning to millions of Universal Credit claimants, urging them to notify the DWP in advance when needing assistance or changes to their claim. Failure to do so may result in delays, errors in payments, or even loss of benefits.
This guidance is part of the government’s effort to streamline the Universal Credit system and ensure that vulnerable individuals receive the proper support while reducing errors and fraudulent claims.
What Is Universal Credit?
Universal Credit is a monthly government benefit that supports individuals with their living costs. It replaces several older benefits such as Income Support, Housing Benefit, and Child Tax Credit.
You may be eligible if you’re:
- On a low income
- Out of work
- Unable to work due to health or caregiving responsibilities
This benefit consolidates several payments into a single monthly payment, which includes a standard allowance and any additional elements based on your personal circumstances (e.g., children, disabilities, rent).
Key DWP Guidance: Inform in Advance
The DWP advises that if you need someone to support you during your Universal Credit journey — including attending jobcentre appointments or helping with your claim — you must inform them in advance and explain the reason.
There are two main ways to notify DWP:
1. Using Your Universal Credit Journal
Log into your Universal Credit online account and update your journal with details about who will be supporting you, and why.
2. Calling the Universal Credit Helpline
Alternatively, you can call the helpline to give this information over the phone.
If not informed ahead of time, the support person may not be allowed to assist or receive any information about your case.
What Is Explicit Consent?
If you want someone to speak to Universal Credit on your behalf, you need to give explicit consent. This is crucial for third-party help such as family members, friends, or support workers.
To give explicit consent, you must:
- Confirm your personal information can be shared
- Explain what information should be shared
- State why it’s needed
- Specify the person’s relationship to you
- If they’re from an organization, provide their name and branch
Without explicit consent, DWP staff are restricted in what they can discuss or share, even with close relatives.
DWP Will Not Share the Following Even with Consent:
- Your address
- Your date of birth
- National Insurance number
- Bank details
- Phone numbers
- Names of your employers or household members
This is in line with data protection policies to keep your information secure.
Managing Universal Credit for Someone Else
In cases where a person is mentally incapable or severely disabled, another person may apply for the right to manage their Universal Credit on their behalf.
This requires written authority, and is typically granted to legal guardians, carers, or close relatives.
Help to Claim – Free Support from Citizens Advice
The Citizens Advice Bureau offers a “Help to Claim” service that:
- Helps determine eligibility
- Assists in filling out applications
- Prepares you for jobcentre appointments
- Ensures your first payment is accurate
Claimants can bring support persons to appointments but must notify the DWP ahead of time.
Universal Credit Components Breakdown
Here’s a simplified breakdown of Universal Credit elements:
| Component | Monthly Amount (2025) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Allowance (Single) | £368.74 | For claimants aged 25+ |
| Standard Allowance (Couple) | £578.82 | Combined payment for couples |
| Child Element | £315.00 (first child) | Higher if child born before April 2017 |
| Limited Capability for Work | £156.11 | If unable to work due to health conditions |
| Carer Element | £185.86 | For those caring for a disabled individual |
| Housing Support | Varies | Rent usually paid directly to the claimant |
Key Takeaways for Universal Credit Claimants
- Always inform the DWP in advance if someone will assist you.
- Use your journal or helpline to provide details.
- Giving explicit consent enables third parties to act on your behalf.
- The DWP won’t share sensitive personal details, even with permission.
- Apply for written authority if managing someone else’s claim.
- Use free Citizens Advice services for help throughout the process.
To avoid payment delays, denied support, or incorrect benefit decisions, Universal Credit claimants must inform the DWP in advance when requesting help or appointing someone to act on their behalf.
Following DWP guidelines ensures smoother claims and safeguards your benefits in 2025 and beyond.
FAQs
Can I bring someone with me to a Universal Credit appointment?
Yes, but you must inform Universal Credit in advance via your online journal or by calling the helpline.
What is ‘explicit consent’ in Universal Credit?
It allows someone to access and discuss your claim with DWP, but only if you clearly provide permission and details about them.
Can I apply on behalf of someone else?
Yes, but only if they are mentally incapable or severely disabled, and you have written authority to manage their claim.