The post office account system will continue until at least November 2021. The accounts allow 'simple' banking facilities to about 2.5 million claimants and is particularly important for those who can't get access to a bank account. One disadvantage is that claimants can not set up direct debit facilities as they might with a normal bank or Credit Union account. Previously the government had planned to withdraw the accounts in March 2015.
New method to claim Carers Allowance. Carers Allowance can now be claimed on line. 125,000 people have done this during a trial period. If claimed on line then a paper form will not need to be signed. As an alternative, the benefit can still be claimed by printing and using form the DS700 form or for pensioners, the DS700(SP)form.
PIP rolled out to new areas. The government has amended its guidance on when old cases of DLA will be reasessed under the new PIP regime. From 26/1/2014, areas with postcodes beginning: DH, G, IV, NE, SR, WA and WN will be 'invited' to claim PIP if -
- the Department receives information about a change in their care or mobility needs;
- their fixed term award is due to expire;
- the claimant turns 16; or
- the claimant wishes to make a PIP claim.
Other postcodes were added from 17/11/2014: CH (Chester); HD (Huddersfield); L (Liverpool); and M (Manchester). Click here for a map which shows where the reassessment process has already started in addition to the areas above.

Mandatory Reconsideration- a first report has found, in the year up to October 2014, the average clearance time for ESA claims was 13 days and that 75% were cleared within 30 days. Totals by benefit type are-
Click here for our updated Introduction to Welfare Benets 2015 course.