Overpayments

Breacon

Hi could someone advice me please. I have two overpayments that I am paying back, one for UC & the Tax credits, I am dealing with energy debt at the moment, so contacted the above as advised for the specifics of the debts. I was told there had been a mistake with WtCredits, but no info as to who made the mistake. UC was an error on their part, as apparantly I was receiving an overlap of another benefit. I dont feel I am responsible for either mistake, yet Im paying them back, of course if I have received money that I shouldnt have done, then it needs to be paid. Has anyone got any thoughts.

Also I would like to mention, the help with energy that you provide, can I ask, why you can receive a payment, but only if you have a pre paid metre. Seems a little unfair, or am I missing something.

Kimmy87

Under the legal framework UC overpayments are always recoverable, even when it is a UC mistake I'm afraid.

Lots of people have found historical WTC overpayments after applying for UC. Again legally this is something that is allowed.

https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/help-if-on-a-low-income/working-and-child-tax-credits/tax-credits-appeals/paying-back-a-working-or-child-tax-credits-overpayment/

You might be able to reduce the amount that is being taken to pay these debts, but that obviously has a downside in that deductions will happen for longer

https://england.shelter.org.uk/professional_resources/legal/benefits/universal_credit/deductions_from_universal_credit_for_debts#deductions-for-debts-owed-to-the-dwp

Breacon

Thank you for your prompt reply, much appreciated.