When Travel Can Impact Your Universal Credit and PIP Payments

When Travel Can Impact Your Universal Credit and PIP Payments

Benefit claimants risk having their payments suspended if they fail to comply with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) rules regarding travel abroad.

The DWP has introduced a new system for reporting travel plans for Universal Credit recipients. Other benefits, such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Jobseeker’s Allowance, and Pension Credit, also have specific travel restrictions. Claimants who fail to notify the DWP of their overseas travel or stay abroad for too long could see their payments cut. Under the new Labour government, the DWP now includes reporting overseas travel under the list of required changes for Universal Credit claimants.

Some claimants have received notifications about this new option when logging into their accounts. Those on Universal Credit are now required to declare any past, present, or future travel outside Great Britain. Claimants must inform the DWP of any travel plans within the next 30 days or any travel since the start of their claim, providing details on dates, destination, and reasons for travel.

Universal Credit recipients are allowed to go abroad for up to one month at a time, provided they return home for at least a month between trips to maintain eligibility. An additional month may be granted in exceptional cases, such as the death of a close relative. Travel for medical treatment or recovery can extend this period up to six months. However, if the absence exceeds these conditions, Universal Credit payments will be reduced to zero for the period in question, though the claim itself will not necessarily be terminated.

The DWP emphasizes the importance of reporting changes promptly, as failure to do so may result in overpayments, which could lead to repayment obligations, court action, or penalties.

Other benefits have similar travel rules. For instance, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance cannot be claimed while abroad, but New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance, based on National Insurance contributions, can be claimed in the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland for up to three months if you’re actively seeking work. Contribution-based ESA can be claimed abroad for up to four weeks, with extensions allowed for medical treatment. PIP, Attendance Allowance, and Disability Living Allowance can typically be claimed abroad for up to 13 weeks, or 26 weeks for medical treatment. Carer’s Allowance allows up to four weeks abroad every six months.

Pension Credit recipients can continue receiving payments abroad for up to four weeks, with extensions possible in cases of death or medical treatment. Recipients must inform the DWP’s Pension Service before traveling to ensure compliance with eligibility rules.

Failing to report changes in travel plans can lead to overpayments, benefit suspensions, or legal consequences, making it essential for claimants to stay informed and compliant with DWP regulations.