The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a crucial warning to benefit claimants planning to travel abroad, reminding them of the strict rules governing temporary absences from the UK. Failure to follow these guidelines could lead to suspended payments, overpayments that must be repaid, or even legal action.

If you’re claiming benefits such as Universal Credit (UC), Personal Independence Payment (PIP), or Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), it’s essential to notify the DWP before leaving the country. Here’s everything you need to know about traveling while on benefits and how to ensure you remain compliant.

Universal Credit (UC) and Traveling Abroad

Universal Credit claimants are allowed to travel, but strict rules apply. You can continue receiving UC for up to one month while abroad, but only if you:

• Inform your work coach before leaving.
• Continue meeting your claimant commitments, such as job searching and attending virtual appointments.

If your travel is related to medical treatment or to support a dependent receiving medical care, your UC payments may continue for up to six months. However, you must provide medical evidence and inform the DWP in advance.

If you move abroad permanently, you will no longer be eligible for Universal Credit, and you cannot apply for UC while outside the UK.

Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) and Travel

For claimants on New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), payments can continue for up to three months if you’re traveling within the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland to actively look for work. To qualify, you must:

• Be entitled to JSA on the day of departure.
• Register as a job seeker at least four weeks before leaving.
• Actively seek work in the UK up to your departure date.
• Register with the local employment service upon arrival and follow their job-seeking requirements.

Failing to meet these criteria may result in your payments being stopped.

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Disability Living Allowance (DLA)

If you receive PIP or DLA, your payments can generally continue for up to 13 weeks while abroad. If the trip is for medical treatment, payments may be extended for up to 26 weeks. However, you must inform the DWP before traveling to avoid any issues with your payments.

PIP and DLA are meant to support people with long-term health conditions and disabilities, so they remain payable during short-term absences as long as you still meet the eligibility criteria.

Check full details on: GOV.UK

Attendance Allowance and Traveling Abroad

For older claimants receiving Attendance Allowance, the rules are similar to PIP and DLA. Payments can continue for up to 13 weeks if the absence is temporary, with extensions possible for up to 26 weeks for medical treatment. Again, notifying the DWP before leaving is essential to avoid disruption to your payments.

How to Notify the DWP Before Traveling

To ensure your benefits remain uninterrupted, you must inform the DWP of your travel plans. This can be done by:

• Calling the DWP helpline relevant to your benefit.
• Logging into your Universal Credit online account and updating your journal.
• Visiting your local Jobcentre Plus office.

You will typically need to provide:

• Your departure and return dates.
• Your destination.
• The reason for your travel ( holiday, medical treatment, family emergency).
• Any supporting documents if applicable (medical treatment letters).

What Happens If You Don’t Report Your Travel?

If you fail to inform the DWP about your trip, you could face serious consequences, including:

• Payments being suspended – If the DWP suspects a change in circumstances, your benefit payments may stop until an investigation is complete.
• Overpayment debt – If the DWP finds out that you were abroad while receiving benefits you were not entitled to, they may demand repayment.
• Legal action – In cases of fraud (e.g., claiming benefits while permanently living abroad), the DWP can take legal action, leading to fines or prosecution.

Special Considerations for EEA Residents and Expats

Some benefits, such as State Pension and certain disability benefits, can be exported if you move abroad to a country in the EEA or Switzerland. However, most working-age benefits (like UC and JSA) stop when you leave the UK permanently.

Conclusion

Traveling while on benefits is possible, but it comes with strict rules that must be followed to avoid penalties. Whether you receive Universal Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance, PIP, or Attendance Allowance, informing the DWP before traveling is essential.

Failing to report your absence could lead to suspended payments, overpayment debts, or even legal action. By staying compliant notifying the DWP, maintaining your commitments, and keeping up with eligibility requirements you can enjoy your trip without worrying about financial consequences