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Written question asked by Jim Shannon (Democratic Unionist Party) on Wednesday, 3 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 8 June 2026. It was answered by Stephen Timms (Labour) on Friday, 12 June 2026 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Social Security Benefits: Deductions

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps her Department is taking to reduce the number of benefit claimants experiencing deductions.

Answer

Deductions from Universal Credit help support customers to manage debts by paying the creditor directly from their benefit, for instance paying rent arrears to ensure the customer does not face eviction. The most effective way to reduce reliance on deductions is to prevent arrears and debt in the first place, including by supporting people to increase their household income through work.

To support those with deductions, on 30 April 2025, the Fair Repayment Rate was implemented. This policy reduced the overall deductions cap from 25% to 15% of a customer’s Universal Credit (UC) standard allowance, enabling approximately 1.2 million UC households to retain more of their award, on average, £420 a year or £35 per month.

DWP is committed to supporting those who may be struggling with their repayment terms. Customers who feel they cannot afford the proposed repayment terms are encouraged to contact the DWP, so we can understand their circumstances and agree an affordable and sustainable repayment plan.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
6360
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Deductions Social security benefits
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk