Benefit Fraud.

frank7

I received a letter stating that I am required to attend an interview under caution about my claim to benefits (JSA).

Thing is, I signed off and am not claiming any benefits at present, I received the letter after I had signed off and the claim is closed with a £100 back to work bonus even after the inital letter due to delays in getting my P45 from them.

I am working abroad now and the letter they sent recorded delivery was signed for by a family member.

The DWP Fraud were informed before that I am away and it was put on my signing on book that the claim was closed and I'd be abroad, yet I get a letter about a closed claim.

Any advice?

Thanks

dmg24

You need to contact them asap to explain that you are overseas. It may be possible to resolve any misunderstanding over the phone, but if they have due cause to believe that your claim is fraudulent, it would be in your best interests to get the issue resolved.

bigbill

If you dont attend the interview and dont claim again they will be unable to caution you so any prosecution will not be possible.

Phone and ask what the problem is?

dmg24

bigbill wrote: »

If you dont attend the interview and dont claim again they will be unable to caution you so any prosecution will not be possible.

Phone and ask what the problem is?

If it becomes a criminal matter they will be able to pursue you irrespective of whether you claim benefits again!

suelees1

Sorry bigbill but that's not right. Additionally if you decline to attend the iuc you can be arrested if they consider a fraud has been committed (although admittedly it's rare).

dippy3103

Sue is right- just because you don't turn up won't prevent the DWP taking further action. A decsions will be taken on the existing evidence without you having the oppourtunity to comment/explain. If they are inviting you alomg to IUC they do have some evidence that suggests an offence has been committed. The fact that the claim is closed won't make any difference- if they belive that an offence has been committed then they will pursue it.

It is possible that they would have you arrested so that they can interview you, or they could just refer the papers for prosecution. Ultimatley if the matter went to court and you failed to show then a bench warrant not backed for bail could be issued.

This would be irrespective of you reclaiming in the future.