Hi, my name is Zammi! Had a biographical interview by phone, but they say I still need to attend...

Zammi

I've just had my biographical interview on the phone for my migration from ESA to UC after applying online and the lady said I'd answered everything correctly but for some reason the computer was saying I had to still attend the Job Centre with the documents.

I suffer with severe anxiety and this is really playing on my mind as to why this is the case when she said I'd answered everything correctly.

Is this normal? Do many people find this the case and if so why?

OverlyAnxious

Hi,

This isn't normal, but it is the second time we've seen it on here this week.

I think this can only mean there is now a software glitch on the UC system, or the DWP/JobCentre have changed the rules for some reason.

Unfortunately I don't have any practical advice to offer. If you can get to the JC, that's the quickest option. If not then you'll have to keep asking for alternatives through the journal. Home visits are available, but they will delay your first UC payment, potentially by months rather than weeks, so best to avoid that if possible.

Zammi

Thank you for replying that’s eased my mind some.

luvpink

Hi

Whats a biographical interview?

OverlyAnxious

https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/comment/1048926#Comment_1048926

It's a telephone call to verify ID when starting a UC claim. Usually used for people who don't have a passport for verifying ID online. They ask specific questions about your benefits and bank accounts and sometimes past education/work. Things that only you and the government would know. Not things that someone could guess or find on a social media profile.

NeuroEve

https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/comment/1048932#Comment_1048932

Hi can I ask how that works when you are someones appointee.

OverlyAnxious

https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/comment/1048988#Comment_1048988

If the appointee doesn't know enough personal information to complete the biographical appointment then another type of appointment will be used instead, such a Job Centre visit or a Home Visit, to see physical copies of paperwork.