**DWP Issues Warning on Four-Week Holiday Rule for Benefit Claimants**
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has put out an important reminder to people claiming benefits, particularly those receiving Carer’s Allowance, regarding the rules on travelling abroad and the potential impact on entitlement. With nearly one million carers throughout Great Britain collecting a weekly payment of £83.30 through this allowance, the DWP is urging recipients to stay vigilant about changes in circumstance that must be officially reported.
Many people may be aware that significant life changes—such as starting or stopping paid work, enrolling in or leaving full-time education, earning over the weekly threshold of £196, or no longer providing 35 hours of care per week—need to be declared to the DWP. However, perhaps less well-known is the specific regulation on foreign travel. Any unpaid carer who spends more than four weeks outside of the UK within a rolling 26-week period could put their benefit payments at risk, potentially losing eligibility altogether.
This rule is highlighted on Government guidance pages, which specify: “You can carry on claiming Carer’s Allowance if you take up to four weeks holiday out of a 26-week period. Tell the office that deals with your benefit that you’ll be away.” The DWP stresses the importance of notifying the relevant department when planning to leave the country for any amount of time, to avoid penalties or overpayment demands upon return.
The advice is particularly timely as many look to book holidays abroad. With the pent-up demand for travel and families considering multiple trips, it is crucial for claimants to ensure their plans do not exceed the prescribed timeframe. Failing to comply could not only lead to interrupted benefits, but might also trigger investigations or even demands to repay overclaimed amounts.
Further information from the independent charity, Independent Age, offers more detailed guidance for carers travelling outside the UK with those they look after. If the cared-for person receives benefits such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Adult Disability Payment, Disability Living Allowance (DLA), or Attendance Allowance, there may occasionally be grounds for a longer absence. However, these cases are considered exceptions and claimants are strongly advised to check specific eligibility requirements before making travel arrangements.
The rules regarding benefit payments can also vary for individuals who move or travel to countries in the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland. In some instances, those moving abroad may still be eligible to continue receiving certain benefits, or may be able to make a new claim from overseas. The DWP encourages anyone in this position to seek out the relevant information on the official GOV.UK website, as each country and benefit may have different provisions.
When it comes to reporting changes, the process can now be completed online, making it more accessible for claimants. Those updating their circumstances will need their National Insurance number, plus full details of the person they care for and a clear summary of any changes. Ensuring that this information is accurate and up-to-date is essential for maintaining entitlement and avoiding any future difficulties with the DWP.
With the cost-of-living crisis ongoing and many carers stretched financially, the implications of lost benefit payments could be significant. The DWP’s reminders are designed to protect claimants, helping them stay within the rules so they do not face unexpected financial hardship.
This public information campaign is part of a broader push for transparency and accuracy within the UK’s welfare system. As ever, those in receipt of any form of benefit are encouraged to review the latest government guidance and seek advice if unsure about any travel or life changes that may affect their entitlements. The evolving landscape of benefits means that vigilance remains key for the nearly one million unpaid carers relying on this financial support.