dwp

[thatman]

I received a demand this morning from the DWP for an alleged overpayment for the period, April 2000 til October 2000.
How far can they legelly go back in their records?

[Buenchico]

For many types of debt (particularly in relation to Government departments), there is a 6 year cut-off period. (For example, the tax man won't normally seek payment after 6 years).

However, there are some exceptions. If the overpayment was due to an error by DWP, I doubt that they could claim any money back. But if the overpayment was due to an error on your part (such as forgetting to tell them about a change in your circumstances), they could argue that they were pursuing a debt incurred through fraud. In which case there is no time limit.

Chris

[Mrs_Pegasus]

Hate to disagree Chris but the minimum is 7 years for VAT and Tax and even then they have dispensation to go further back if needs be.

Some years ago it was ruled that even if it was an administration error on the part of the DWP they are still entitled to claim the money back saying that you as the claimant should have realised. I know this is unfair but at the end of the day its not their money its every tax payers.