Fraud Investigation

Arrows

The DWP via HMRC electronically track bank accounts in benefit claimants name.

If it is this account that is causing the problem then you will need to show that even though it is in your name, the money is not yours nor cannot it be used for your benefit.

You do not say what format the interview is, if it is a compliance interview then you can have someone with you and we recommend you doing this, they can take notes and also offer moral support. If the interview is Under Caution (IUC), then we strongly recommend that you seek legal advice and should not attend without your solicitor being present if at all possible.

The capital and savings limits for most Income Related benefits is £6000 after which there is a £1/week deduction for every £250 in excess, the absolute limit is £16,000 above which you cannot receive benefit.

Gordon

James wrote: Gordon when you say electronically track do you mean this is mandatory for all new claims?

It is nothing to do with new claims!

All banks, etc. report the interest they pay on bank or savings accounts to HMRC at least annually and probably quarterly, I doubt that HMRC pass on the information for every account, there is bound to be a minimum level, but for those that they do, the DWP then matches account owners to benefit claimants to see whether they may have exceeded the limits for any Income Related benefits they are receiving.

Gordon

James wrote: Gordon Theres something I don't understand about this,nowadays the majority of Bank & building Society Current Accounts pay zero interest.
Also Customers are generally offered the option of opting out of Tax at source?

Can't really comment, none of my accounts have zero interest and I have never been offered the option of opting out

Gordon