Millions of people in the UK claim Universal Credit, a monthly benefit that helps with living costs. The financial aid is available to those living in the UK, aged between 18 and under state pension age, and have £16,000 or less in money, savings, or investments. It typically helps those on a low income, out of work, or unable to work, and there are some expectations for 16 and 17-year-olds.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) confirmed that if you are on Universal Credit and go abroad, you can continue to receive the benefit for one month. However, you must be eligible for the benefit when you’re going abroad, remain eligible whilst abroad, and inform your work coach that you are going.
It is important that these rules are followed, as those who claim the benefit would have accepted an agreement called a ‘claimant commitment’, and not doing everything you agree to in your commitment could cause payments to be reduced or stopped, which is known as a sanction.
For example, some people will be required to look for work and will therefore get help from a ‘work coach’ who helps with things like applying for jobs, accessing training, or finding work in their area.
Additionally, many claimants will need to attend regular appointments at the jobcentre or by phone, and if an appointment is missed without an acceptable reason, a sanction is likely, leading to a reduction in the payment amount.
Rules are different for those travelling abroad for medical treatment. Claimants doing so can continue to get Universal Credit for up to six months, if going for medical treatment, a period of recovery in England, Scotland or Wales, known as ‘approved convalescence’, or to care for a partner or child who is getting medical treatment or going for a period of recovery.
DWP also noted that claimants can stay in the country where the medical treatment took place to recover or care for a partner or child.
However, any medical treatment must be carried out by a qualified medical professional, and if you are going abroad specifically for a period of recovery, it must be approved by a UK medical professional.
The most important thing you must do if you claim and plan to go abroad is contact Universal Credit as soon as you know you’re travelling. This can be done through your online account or by calling the helpline on 0800 328 5644