Universal Credit warning as fraudulent claims reach record high - impacts for Britons
Universal Credit is designed to provide important support to individuals who are on a low income, out of work or unable to work. The monthly payment is claimed by millions of people, and has proved a lifeline throughout the COVID-19. While the vast majority of people claim Universal Credit honestly, there are instances where issues may arise.
It is thought the relaxation of the checks accounted for some £3.8 billion in overpayments.
The number of people claiming Universal Credit soared as a result of the pandemic, which brought about job losses and business closures.
Those recorded as claiming doubled to six million since March last year, when restrictions were first announced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
Gareth Davies, head of the NAO, commented on the developments.
He said: “I am concerned that the level of fraud and error in the benefits system continues to increase year on year, now reaching its highest level since records began.
