The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has rules for Universal Credit claimants if you’re planning to travel abroad on holiday this summer
Universal Credit claimants planning a summer holiday should be aware of Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) rules concerning time spent abroad. Those receiving the benefit can travel outside the UK for up to one month without jeopardising their Universal Credit payments – however, they must notify the DWP in advance.
This is generally done by logging a change of circumstances in your online journal, or by contacting the Universal Credit helpline directly. Despite this, claimants must continue to fulfil their claimant commitment while away. This means job-seeking activities may need to continue throughout your time abroad.
Those in the intensive work search category are typically expected to spend 35 hours per week looking for employment, according to the Mirror, Birmingham Live reports.
Certain exceptions do apply, such as travelling overseas for medical treatment, which allows absences of up to six months. In the event of a close family member’s death, claimants are permitted one additional month abroad.
Universal Credit consists of a standard allowance, which is the base payment received before any additional elements – such as having dependants or being unable to work due to ill health – or deductions are taken into account.
Deductions may apply if you have savings or are in debt to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). For those in work, a taper rate reduces your maximum Universal Credit payment as your earnings increase.
The taper rate is 55%, which means 55p is deducted from your maximum Universal Credit entitlement for every £1 you earn. Some claimants qualify for a “work allowance” – a set amount you can earn before your Universal Credit is reduced.
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