DWP confirms PIP claimants to face 'more rigorous checks' on bank accounts

People claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) will be subject to 'more rigorous checks' on changes to their bank accounts. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is expected to closely monitor some claimants in a bid to clamp down on fraud.

'Identity and verification' processes will be strengthened and there will be extra scrutiny for those who change their details. Conservative MP Sir John Hayes asked what steps were being taken 'to tackle people fraudulently claiming Personal Independence Payments'.

In response, DWP Under-Secretary Andrew Western said the department was 'committed to tackling fraud and error' and has been working with counter-fraud experts. It comes as new legislation to set to be introduced under the Fraud, Error and Debt Bill.

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Mr Western said: "DWP is committed to tackling fraud and error in the benefits system and to the recovery of debts, including those generated by Personal Independent Payments. Working closely with counter fraud experts, the DWP has introduced measures to prevent fraud entering the system based on the types of cases and trends we have seen, for example: Strengthening the Identity and Verification Process to prevent fraudulent cases entering the system; Introducing more rigorous checks for customers changing personal details, including bank accounts; Delivering awareness sessions for Case Managers and Healthcare Professionals, reinforcing action to take when suspicious cases are identified, eg fake documents.

"DWP is delivering against key counter fraud activity, including investing in counter fraud professionals and building data analytical capabilities. The new Fraud, Error and Debt Bill will bring forward new measures to tackle fraud in the system.

"Details on the measures Government will be legislating will be presented to Parliament in due course. More information on how the department tackles fraud and error across all benefit streams can be found here: DWP annual report and accounts 2023 to 2024 (HTML) - GOV.UK "

According to the Government, measures to be introduced as part of the bill are expected to save up to £1.6 billion over the next five years. PIP can help with extra living costs if you have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability and have difficulty doing certain everyday tasks or getting around because of your condition.