DWP Universal Credit update on jobcentre face-to-face interviews

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) says there are not 6.7 million people in Britian claiming Universal Credit. The means-tested benefit helps claimants who are unemployed or on a low income.

According to guidance from the DWP, those claiming Universal Credit must verify their identity. It has issued a new update, with a full list of ID documents new claimants will have to take with them to the Jobcentre if asked to attend a face-to-face interview.

The DWP says that verifying a claimant’s identity 'helps to link the right person to the right claim and reduce identity fraud'. Universal Credit no longer uses Government Gateway or GOV.UK Verify for online verification.

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The DWP says there are a number of ways to verify your identify for Universal Credit claims, Daily Record reports. This includes:

• Online identity verification

• Face-to-face appointments

• Documentary evidence

• Biographical interviews

Verifying your identity online is simple - you can provide some information only you would know like your passport or payslips. According to guidance from the DWP, you can use any two of the following items to verify your identity online:

• Payslips dated within the last 3 months

• Most recent P60

• Valid UK passport

• Recent Self Assessment returns

• Tax Credits (including Voice ID)

• Credit references or records - for example, information about credit cards or phone contracts

If you successfully verify your identity online, you may not need the full 'initial evidence interview'. The DWP uses a combination of documentary evidence, interviewing and information from its own records to verify your identity.

It may mean you have to attend face-to-face appointments or have phone biographical interviews. For face-to-face appointments at a Jobcentre Plus, you will need to bring ID and proof of address.

DWP said: "Depending on your circumstances, details of what evidence you need to provide will be discussed with you when you apply for Universal Credit. "Full details can be found on GOV.UK here.