Coronavirus update - benefit reviews and reassessments suspended

24 Mar 2020 10:22 AM

Reviews and reassessments for disability benefits are being suspended for the next three months.

This temporary measure, effective from today (Tuesday 24 March), is being taken to reassure vulnerable people about the continuity of their benefits during the coronavirus outbreak and to ensure the Department’s resources are focused on enabling access to financial support for new claimants. This follows on from a previous announcement to suspend all face-to-face assessments in order to safeguard potentially vulnerable claimants.

Work and Pensions Secretary of State Thérèse Coffey yesterday said:

As this country ramps up its efforts to support people through coronavirus, we will do whatever it takes to protect claimants and our staff. 

We are automatically extending all awards and reassessments for health and disability benefits to provide that reassurance to those in receipt of them. 

Information for claimants

what this means for you:

Additional information

about the suspension of reviews and assessments:

On Thursday (19 March) it was also announced people receiving benefits do not have to attend jobcentre appointments for at least 3 months. People will continue to receive their benefits as normal, but all requirements to attend the jobcentre appointments in person are suspended.

People can still make applications for benefits online if they are eligible. Jobcentres remain open, and will continue to support people who are not able to use phones and online, including homeless people.

Contact Press Office

Media enquiries for this press release – 020 3267 5144

Press Office

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