Benefit investigation

Fran

This Website has info on Mortgage Interest Payments.

You really need to speak to a Citizens Advice Bureau or other debt and benefits advisor about you situation as they will be able to help with managing your debts and make sure you are on maximum benefits too.

Amie_007

Myusersnametaken's point that the DWP does not communicate with the Council's is not strictly true. I agree that in the past, the 2 different organisations have not communicated particulary well but this is something that has been recognised and should be improving.

In cases of alleged fraud, both investigation departments should liase, depending on a number of factors, and will look to investigate and interview people jointly. So it could still be that the reason for your interview is because you have submitted a claim for HB, and the council have notified IS.

Curry_Queen

Many areas now operate on a One-stop scheme (piloted in 2000/1) whereby all benefits, whether relating to the DWP or local council, are dealt with in the same office too so it's difficult to know for sure which dept has requested the investigation at this stage.

bokkie7975

Would they inform you on the interview request letter if it would be an "Interview under caution" or would you only be advised of this once at the interview?
A friend has received one of these letters and is freaking out a bit.
I had a home visit when I first started claiming I.S. , they just wanted to confirm ID, address etc. In & out in about 20 minutes.

System

I think your friend will get the seriousness of it if they open the tapes, and ask you to sign to say that they have been opened in front of you.

The letter will tell your friend of the seriousness of the alegation, they will also warn her that anything she says may be used as evidence. A solicitor might be beneficial at this stage.

If she gets in to the office and they dont tape the interview, then its just a general sort of questioning.

bokkie7975 wrote:

Would they inform you on the interview request letter if it would be an "Interview under caution" or would you only be advised of this once at the interview?
A friend has received one of these letters and is freaking out a bit.
I had a home visit when I first started claiming I.S. , they just wanted to confirm ID, address etc. In & out in about 20 minutes.

daveboy

Remind me to have three kids and expect the taxpayer to stump up for them.

It is money saving so you're in the right place I suppose.

Curry_Queen

I'm not sure who that comment was directed towards, but I think it's pretty clear that neither the OP or I had any choice in claiming benefits, for which we have both paid our taxes for many years previously, so I think it's a little unfair to make such a criticism


Edit: ... and besides, I only have one child living at home now for whom I receive maintenance from his father and is not supported by the state and other tax payers

elaine373

What a dreadful thing to say Dave, easy for you to judge. Things happen unexpectedly, death, marital break up etc. you must have it easy if all you have to worry about is Leicester city.

System

Remember there's no such thing as a stupid question, pls be nice to all MoneySavers!

As quoted by Martin at the top of the page. I too have feelings over this issue, but choose not to air them in public.

bokkie7975

I have seen friend's letter and it is exactly as cc74 stated - 'matter has arisen which may affect your claim and we need to discuss this with you, please attend interview......,' blah, blah.
No allegation mentioned, no mention of getting legal advice.