The UK’s Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a formal reminder to those receiving Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and Disability Living Allowance (DLA) regarding travel restrictions. Specifically, DWP has highlighted the maximum duration that claimants can travel abroad without affecting their benefits.

According to DWP guidelines, any travel outside the UK—whether past, current, or planned—must be reported directly to the department. This requirement applies to all claimants and covers trips taken since the start of their benefit claim or any travel anticipated within the next 30 days. When notifying DWP, claimants must provide specific details, including the purpose of the trip, the dates, and the destination.

Universal Credit: One-Month Limit for Overseas Travel

For Universal Credit recipients, there is a strict one-month limit on travel outside the UK. Claimants must ensure they are eligible for Universal Credit both before and during their time abroad and are required to inform their work coach of their plans. Furthermore, they must reside in the UK for a minimum of one month between each overseas trip. Exceptions to this one-month rule do exist, however, in certain cases. For instance, Universal Credit may continue for up to six months if the purpose of travel is related to medical treatment or recuperation approved by a healthcare professional. This also applies if the claimant is accompanying a partner or child who is receiving approved medical treatment abroad.

DWP specifies that if a close relative passes away while a claimant is abroad, and it would be unreasonable for them to return immediately to the UK, their Universal Credit payments can continue for an additional month. However, DWP emphasizes that Universal Credit cannot be claimed by individuals who are moving abroad permanently or who are already outside the UK when making the claim.

Other Benefits and Travel Allowances

Claimants of other benefits, such as Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for adults, and Personal Independence Payment (PIP), can generally continue receiving their payments while abroad for up to 13 weeks. In cases where travel is for medical reasons, this period can extend to 26 weeks. For those claiming Carer’s Allowance, it is permitted to take up to four weeks of holiday within any 26-week period without losing eligibility.

These measures underscore the importance of transparency and adherence to reporting requirements for those on DWP benefits.