Report a benefits change of circumstances
2 tasks in suggested order
1. Report relevant benefit changes promptly in Great Britain
Report changes that can affect your entitlement or payment using the reporting route for each benefit. One report does not necessarily update every benefit or organisation.
As soon as the relevant change happens, using the timing/rules for the benefit you receive.
Universal Credit online account, HMRC, your council, Pension Service, Jobcentre Plus or the benefit-specific service shown by GOV.UK.
National Insurance/claim details and evidence/details of the change where requested.
Late or incorrect reporting can cause overpayments, recovery and in some cases a penalty. If you receive more than one benefit, you may need to report the same change separately.
Official source: GOV.UK
2. Report relevant benefit changes through the Northern Ireland benefit route
If applicable: If you live in Northern Ireland and receive a benefit affected by the change.
In Northern Ireland, report changes to the office/service responsible for each benefit. Universal Credit changes are normally reported through the online account; other benefits can use different Department for Communities routes.
As soon as a change happens that the benefit rules require you to report.
Your Universal Credit online account or the relevant Northern Ireland benefit office/service.
Benefit/claim details, National Insurance number where requested and the facts/evidence of the change.
If you receive more than one benefit, one notification may not update them all. Not reporting promptly can lead to overpayment and recovery.
Official source: nidirect
