DWP explains five work issues that could stop your Universal Credit payment

Universal Credit offers vital support to those on a low income, but there is a common misconception that this means they must maintain their low-earning capacity to keep receiving the benefit. The Department for Work and Pensions has highlighted five specific work-related blunders that could jeopardise your benefit claim, including not striving to enhance your work and financial situation, contrary to this widespread belief.

Before getting their first payment, claimants must agree to adhere to a set of expectations and rules known as a Claimant Commitment.

Neglecting or failing to uphold these commitments can result in a person's benefit claim being reduced or halted through sanctions. While each commitment agreement is unique and tailored by the DWP to meet the claimant's individual needs and circumstances, there are some common work-related requirements.

Job hunting

Claimant commitments outline how many hours per week a claimant should dedicate to job search activities. This could involve tasks like applying for jobs, updating their CV, or going to job interviews.

Falling short of this requirement could lead to a sanction if they do not have a valid reason for not meeting the target. Citizens Advice suggests keeping a detailed diary to log all of your work-related activities, including the date and duration of each task.

Job offers, pay rises and work placements

The DWP can't force claimants to accept an opportunity that comes their way, but they will need a good reason to refuse it without risking a sanction. This could include the job not being suitable for their circumstances.

The DWP does not provide a specific list of 'good reasons', but Citizens Advice has highlighted examples such as travel and childcare costs being too high to make the job worthwhile, or the claimant having a religious or ethical objection to the type of work on offer.

Leaving employment

Voluntarily leaving a job or losing work due to misconduct can lead to a high-level sanction on Universal Credit. This means payments could be reduced for up to six months.

Training courses

The claimant commitment will also outline other work-related activities and how much time per week a person should dedicate to them. This could include enrolling and completing a specific training course or workshop. If the claimant fails to attend or fully participate in these programmes, a sanction can be imposed.

Jobcentre appointments

At the Jobcentre, claimants will discuss work plans with their work coach. Missing or consistently being late for these appointments is also grounds for a sanction under the Universal Credit rules.

This is a common reason for low-level sanctions to be issued, which usually last for a few days if the claimant hasn't received a sanction in the past year.