DWP introduces new bank account checks for benefit claims

Summarised from 4 outlets · Updated 13 Oct, 09:28 · Archive

The Department for Work and Pensions has introduced new rules allowing banks to share limited information to verify benefit eligibility.

The Department for Work and Pensions has set out new rules allowing banks to share limited information about accounts linked to certain benefit payments as part of checks on whether people are receiving the correct amount. The Eligibility Verification Measure (EVM) applies to people claiming Universal Credit, Pension Credit and New Style Employment and Support Allowance in England, Scotland and Wales.

Under the measure, banks and other financial institutions must provide specified information when they receive an Eligibility Verification Notice from the DWP. The aim is to help identify incorrect benefit payments and check whether claimants remain entitled to the support they receive. However, the rules do not give the DWP live access to people's online banking, and banks cannot simply hand over full bank statements or details of how someone spends their money through this measure.

The DWP published guidance on October 13 explaining how the checks work. Under the Eligibility Verification Measure, the DWP shares certain eligibility indicators with financial institutions based on benefit eligibility rules. These help banks identify accounts that may need to be checked. Financial institutions then examine information they hold about accounts receiving relevant benefit payments.

If an account meets an eligibility indicator, they can share limited information with the DWP. This can include accounts linked to the benefit payment, joint accounts and accounts belonging to someone other than the claimant. The information that may be shared is restricted by rules set out in the new guidance.

The DWP says it cannot log into anyone's online banking or view their account in real time through the measure. The rules also set limits on the information financial institutions can provide to ensure claimants' privacy is protected.

How it is being reported

• DWP benefit checks explained as new bank account rules come into forceThe DWP has set out new benefit eligibility checks involving banks. Find out which benefits are affected and what happens if your claim is reviewed.Cumberland News · 13 Oct, 09:03
• DWP benefit checks explained as new bank account rules come into forceThe DWP has set out new benefit eligibility checks involving banks. Find out which benefits are affected and what happens if your claim is reviewed.Westmorland Gazette · 13 Oct, 09:03
• DWP benefit checks explained as new bank account rules come into forceThe DWP has set out new benefit eligibility checks involving banks. Find out which benefits are affected and what happens if your claim is reviewed.NW Evening Mail · 13 Oct, 09:03
• DWP benefit checks explained as new bank account rules come into forceThe DWP has set out new benefit eligibility checks involving banks. Find out which benefits are affected and what happens if your claim is reviewed.Whitehaven News · 13 Oct, 09:03

In this story: Department for Work and Pensions · England · Scotland · Wales

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