According to the latest Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) statistics, more than seven million people across Scotland, England, and Wales are claiming Universal Credit. This benefit, aimed at supporting those on low income whether employed or not, helps cover everyday living costs.

For those seeking to apply for this means-tested support online, identity verification is a must; without it, applications stall. The DWP has announced that: payslips and P60s are now scrapped from the list of valid evidence for online identity checks on GOV.UK.

The DWP said: “Universal Credit no longer uses Government Gateway or GOV.UK Verify for online verification.”

DWP‘s guidelines underscore the importance of identity confirmation when claiming Universal Credit, stating it “helps to link the right person to the right claim and reduce identity fraud”, as reported by Lancs Live.

To verify your identity, there are several options:

• online identity verification
• face-to-face appointments
• documentary evidence
• biographical interviews

Online Identity Verification

The DWP advises that verifying your identity online is both simple and secure, but cautions: “Universal Credit no longer uses Government Gateway or GOV.UK Verify for online verification.”

Evidence for Online Verification

When verifying your identity online, you’ll need to provide personal information such as passport details that only you would know.

When handling your identity verification online, you will use two of the following:

• valid UK passport
• recent Self Assessment returns
• credit references or records – for example, information about credit cards or phone contracts

Avoiding the standard ‘initial evidence interview’ could be possible if you can authenticate your identity through an online platform.

However, there are alternative methods for confirming identity:

• face-to-face appointments
• phone biographical interviews

GOV.UK guidelines say: “The DWP uses a combination of documentary evidence, interviewing and information on DWP records to verify someone’s identity.”

In-person verification at Jobcentre Plus necessitates bringing along identification and proofs of address. The precise documentation needed according to individual circumstances is specified upon applying for Universal Credit.

Detailed directives for establishing identity during the Universal Credit application process are available for consultation on GOV.UK here.

Currently, monthly benchmark figures for Universal Credit are categorised as follows:

Single claimant

Under 25: £316.98

25 or over: £400.14

Couples

Joint claimants both under 25: £497.55

Joint claimants, one or both 25 or over: £628.10

A full list of additional elements related to Universal Credit, including the Work Capability Allowance, can be found on GOV.UK here.