Old Debt - or is it?

faye1978

I have today had a letter from the DWP about some money I apparently owe them. I had a letter approximately 1 year ago and called and asked them to send proof of my receiving the money but nothing has come and today I have received this letter. It is from 2 claims I made back in 2002 whilst claiming JSA - the amount is £64.87 but I have budgeted really tightly and cannot afford it. I dont remember having the money and have since signed on but never been deducted for it. I called them this morning whn I received the letter and got the dates but as they were so long ago - I honestly dont recall havng it (I have only signed on a couple of times in my life anyway).

When I asked again if there was anything with my sig on it to say I had it they said they dont have that sort of proof and they would send me the dates it was claimed and what and where and that would suffice as evidence but I cant see how...............

Can anyone advise on this please?

Thanks

lesleyvhalifax

they cannot chase you for it after 6 years

faye1978

Thanks for the reply. They sent me a letter about a year ago but never followed up when proof was asked for. Does this then start the 6 years again do you know?

lesleyvhalifax

yes i think it does, the same thing happened to me 10 years ago I was made redundant and my first giro was a handwritten one, the printed one a fortnight later had 3 weeks in it, and to this date no one has asked for it back

GeorgeUK

Faye, you would be better or asking nationaldebtline about this one.

While it is true that a debt becomes statute barred after 6 years if there has been no acknowledgement of the debt either by payment or in writing (you writing to them), then a debt can be made statute barred. With DWP however i think while they cannot pursue you through the courts, they may be able to take money from any future benefits you may get.

I think you should get some expert advice on this and see what they say.

fatbelly

I believe George is correct, as usual.

An overpayment of JSA can be deducted from a future award of another DWP benefit but not for example, from child benefit, tax credits or housing benefit.

faye1978

Thanks guys! I have since claimed benefits but it has never been taken back! It seems strange that they waited nearly 6 years to contact me then another year to cntact me again!!! I will call nationaldebt helpline as you suggested! Thanks