Help in tackling claim form issues during virus lockdown

Following on from last week’s column we again hope to answer some common queries we have been getting around benefits and the coronavirus outbreak. We were also hoping for more clarification around help for the self-employed and as of writing the official position has still to be confirmed. Hopefully there should be an announcement later today (March 26 as I write this).

Another common query has concerned clients who may have been sent a claim form with a specified return date.

As we aren't seeing clients face to face to help with completion and some clients are not confident in filling in forms, even with help over the phone from ourselves or other benefit organisations.

Although we are waiting confirmation officially we understand the position will be as follows.

If you currently get DLA/ PIP/Attendance Allowance, ESA or Universal Credit due to ill health (i.e. you can't work) and have been sent a renewal form for PIP/DLA/AA or an ESA50/UC 50 to assess your capability to work then you won't be penalised for failing to return the form.

Your current award/benefit will continue at it's present amount (even if you have a specific end date) and the DWP will contact you later.

You may wish to still complete the forms if you wish but it is likely staff resources at DWP will be used to deal with getting benefit money to people with low of limited income.

If you have requested a claim for DLA/PIP/AA then you will be given an automatic 12 week extension.

Again you can still complete the forms but again its likely these will not be worked on due to resource management at DWP.

Following from last week’s column it has been confirmed that any existing applications/forms that were sent before the lockdown measures will be dealt with but without the usual face to face assessment. This measure is expected to be in place for a minimum of 12 weeks.

As always please also refer to the news in case of any changes or revisions, the position unfortunately changes everyday but often with little clarity.