DWP claimants urged to report changes as overpayment figures released

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) provides State Pension and welfare benefits to approximately 22.7 million people across Great Britain. The most recent figures, published in the 2024 Fraud and Error in the Benefit System report, reveal that overpayments of benefits totalled £9.7 billion (3.7%) over the past year, a rise from the previous year's figure of £8.3bn.

Introduced in 2013, the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is intended to assist individuals with additional costs due to long-term illness, disability or mental or physical health conditions. The data indicates that around £21.6bn was spent on PIP last year, a substantial increase from the £17.7bn in 2022/23.

This figure is projected to grow as the number of recipients receiving up to £737.20 each month has hit a record-breaking high of 3.5m. However, the statistics also indicate that while overpayments decreased from £200 million in 2022/23 to £90m last year, this could lead to claimants having to repay money to the DWP.

The DWP attributed the primary cause of PIP overpayments to claimant error (0.3%), where an individual failed to report a change in their circumstances, specifically an improvement in their condition, reports the Daily Record.

The report clarifies that the proportion of PIP claims overpaid last year was one in 100, the same rate as the previous year. It also stated that this accounted for £6 in every £10 overpaid.

To report a change of circumstances, you can reach out to the PIP enquiry line on 0800 121 4433. The lines are open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. However, keep in mind that the opening hours may vary during the festive fortnight.

Here's a detailed guide on all the changes in circumstances and whether you need to