The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a new DWP payment warning, urging millions of benefit claimants to check their post and email for important letters. The notice comes as people on older “legacy benefits” are being moved to Universal Credit, and failure to respond in time could mean losing payments entirely.
Under the Government’s Managed Migration programme, claimants receiving benefits such as Tax Credits, Income Support, Housing Benefit, ESA, or JSA are being instructed to switch to Universal Credit. When a migration notice is issued, claimants are given a deadline—usually around three months—to reapply. Those who do not respond risk losing their ongoing DWP payment.
Who Is Affected?
Groups most likely to be impacted include:
- People receiving legacy benefits
- Claimants who recently changed address and may miss letters
- Individuals with limited internet or phone access
- Vulnerable or elderly claimants who may not understand the notices
The DWP has stated that missing the deadline can lead to benefits being stopped without back payments, even if you were originally eligible.
Scam Warning Linked to DWP Payment Messages
Alongside the migration notices, there has been a rise in scams, with fake texts and emails claiming to offer new DWP payments or cost-of-living top-ups. These messages often ask recipients to click links or provide bank details.
The DWP confirms it will never ask for bank details over text or email.
If you receive a suspicious message:
- Do not click the link
- Forward it to 7726 (spam reporting service)
- Delete it afterwards
What Claimants Should Do Now
To avoid losing your DWP payment, take the following steps:
- Check your post for any DWP letters marked “Important – Action Required.”
- Make sure your address and phone number are up to date with DWP or HMRC.
- If you receive a migration notice, start your Universal Credit application before the deadline.
- If unsure, contact Citizens Advice, local welfare support, or visit GOV.UK.
Acting quickly is crucial — once payments stop, they are not automatically reinstated.
Source: Action Fraud
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