Dispute over Universal Credit overpayment. Advice?

POPPYOSCAR

InNeedofAdvice wrote: »

It's such a poorly run welfare system. People like myself that are financially vulnerable and that rely on an efficient system are being put in difficult situations through very little fault of their own.

When it comes down to it, I've been patient and proactive - I called to discuss it at the time, before this was raised and even offered to pay the difference back at the time. I was told incorrect information by the DWP, but followed their instruction as I thought it was the right thing to do.

And now they've realised their mistake, 6 months later, none of my positive, proactive actions are being taken into account and I'm "to blame".

So frustrating.

I do agree.

A relative of mine has just found out from her bank statement that her award has been halved since she did her renewal.

She has not received any notification of this.

Surely they should send paperwork?

It does not help vulnerable people when dealing with their finances.

marliepanda

POPPYOSCAR wrote: »

I do agree.

A relative of mine has just found out from her bank statement that her award has been halved since she did her renewal.

She has not received any notification of this.

Surely they should send paperwork?

It does not help vulnerable people when dealing with their finances.

UC is all online now, she should get an updated online statement. Has she logged into her portal?

jessex1990

It sounds as if you should have been put onto ESA instead. Who told you to apply for UC?

You absolutely can claim ESA for mental health illness. The Work Capability Questionnaire has a mental health section and you can qualify based on getting the points in that section alone.

It sounds as if you were poorly advised when you started your claim which might mean you can backdate a claim on ESA to January

Also if you get to the end of the ESA assessment period and 'fit for week' after exhausting the appeal process you can call the new claims line and have a transfer from ESA to JSA with no gap in your payments and on a weekly basis.

POPPYOSCAR

marliepanda wrote: »

UC is all online now, she should get an updated online statement. Has she logged into her portal?

Sorry not universal credits.

Working tax credits and she gets forms to complete through the post.

If you do do it online do they email you to let you know it is updated?