Enhanced universal credit review

famid

Hi, 4 months ago , I completed universal credit review for me and my husband everything was ok . Last week I received a phone call from enhanced team after many questions regarding my rent asking me to provide tenancy agreement and many documents .. There are no problems but they asked to provide them my previous tenancy agreement which I left the flat 6 years ago .At that time I provide the job center and the council ( before I move to Uv) the hard copy of the contract they approved it and got a copy . I was living in that flat for 10 years . It means that they asked to provide a proof for the old contract it was dated 2010 and receipts from the landlord.. I have no contact with him since I left the flat as well as I do not if he still lives in the UK .. when I moved from job center to UC . I provide them everything they asked for .Any advice or help to deal with this problem . I give them a permission to ask a third party about any documents they need .. My husband is 68 y approaching 69 , has many health problems with kidney failure and sever depression, receiving DLA and I am his carer approaching 66y . Any help please ..

Drausus

Hello Famid I am terribly sorry to hear about your situation!

It seems the Enhanced Review Team has flagged your Universal Credit (UC) claim for additional checks, which is not uncommon. They may request older documents to verify your housing history and ensure your claim is accurate. Here's how you can approach this situation:

1. Explain Your Situation Clearly: Use your UC journal to explain that you no longer have access to the requested tenancy agreement from 6 years ago, as you provided it during a previous claim and no longer have contact with the landlord.
2. Provide Alternative Evidence: If possible, submit any supporting documents from that period, such as:
   • Bank statements showing rent payments.
   • Council tax bills or utility bills from that address.
   • Any correspondence with the council or Jobcentre confirming your tenancy at that time.
3. Request Assistance: If you're struggling to gather documents, request help from the DWP through your UC journal. They may be able to verify records with third parties if you've given permission.
4. Highlight Your Circumstances: Emphasize your caregiving role and your husband’s health issues, as these could qualify you for additional support under "enhanced needs" criteria.
5. Stay Calm and Compliant: Submit all other requested documents promptly to avoid payment suspension. Keep records of everything you send.

If needed, seek advice from a welfare rights organisation like Citizens Advice or a local support group for further assistance.

famid

Hi Drasus,

Thank you so much for your response and advice. This has been so helpful. I will do as you said.

Thanks again!