All applicants for means-tested payments are advised at the initial claim stage of the requirement to notify my Department of any subsequent change in their means.
Customers receiving long-term payments, such as pensioners and one-parent families, who are paid by personalised payable order books, have reminders printed on their cover. In the case of unemployment assistance, the monthly declaration of unemployment which they sign contains a notice advising recipients of their obligations to notify any changes in circumstances.
My Department takes other opportunities to inform customers of the need to notify it of any changes in their circumstances, for example in our recently published customer charter. The charter is on display in public offices and is available on my Department's website.
In addition, from time to time my Department sends mailshots to customers about the need to notify it of any changes, including changes in means. Customers receiving means-related payments have their cases reviewed by inspectors at regular intervals. My Department has a policy of reviewing its procedures on an ongoing basis. The issue of reminding customers of their obligations to keep the Department informed of changes in their circumstances will be kept under review.
