DWP urges thousands to take action ahead of benefits being axed

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is urging hundreds of thousands of benefit claimants to take action over the next six months to ensure their payments are not stopped.

The DWP is in the process of moving millions of people from old-style 'legacy' benefits - such as jobseeker's allowance, employment support allowance and tax credits - to Universal Credit.

Letters, know as migration notices, are being sent out to people who must make a Universal Credit claim in order to continue receiving benefits.

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On Monday, the DWP warned that Tax Credits would be scrapped completely in April 2025, leaving just six months for people to take action. The welfare department urged claimants to respond to their migration notices, which state a deadline to make a claim by, to continue receiving their benefits.

People who receive a migration notice have three months from the date on their letter to apply for Universal Credit. Tax credit claimants do not need to take action until they receive their migration notice letter from the DWP.

The DWP is urging anyone who needs support with their claim to contact DWP for a smooth transition before their deadline.

Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disability, said: "Having three months to make a move may feel like a long time but life can often distract you elsewhere. For the best chance to secure your benefit entitlement don’t delay with responding to your migration notice.

"We are committed to ensuring a smooth transition and customers will have the full support of DWP staff to help manage this change."