The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has made an important change to the way people can verify their identity when applying for Universal Credit. Starting April 8, 2025, some documents are no longer accepted for online identity verification as part of the application process.
These changes are part of DWP’s effort to reduce identity fraud and ensure only eligible people receive payments.
Let’s break down what’s changed, what you now need to provide, and how to prepare if you’re applying for Universal Credit.
What Is Universal Credit?
Universal Credit is a benefit designed to help with living costs. You may be eligible if you:
- Are on a low income or out of work
- Are aged 18 or over (with exceptions for some 16–17 year-olds)
- Are under State Pension age
- Have less than £16,000 in savings
- Live in the UK
Payments are made monthly into your bank account.
What Changed on April 8?
From April 8, 2025, the DWP has confirmed that two documents can no longer be used for online identity checks when applying for Universal Credit:
- Payslips
- P60s
Earlier, on April 6, tax credits were also removed as a form of identification, since they officially ended on April 5.
This means if you were planning to use any of these documents to verify your identity online, you’ll now need to choose other options.
What Can You Use to Verify Your Identity?
To apply for Universal Credit, you must verify your identity either online or in person. Here are the acceptable methods:
Online Verification Options
You may need to provide two or more of the following:
- Valid UK passport
- Recent Self Assessment tax return information
- Credit reference or financial records
- National Insurance number
- Driving licence (depending on the service used)
These documents are used to check information that only you would know.
Alternative Methods If You Can’t Verify Online
If you’re unable to verify your identity online, the DWP offers alternative options:
- Face-to-face appointment at your local Jobcentre
- Biographical phone interview
- Providing documents in person
Your verification method will be discussed with you during your application, and DWP will tell you what you need to provide based on your circumstances.
Why Has the DWP Made These Changes?
The aim is to improve security and reduce fraud. Removing older documents like P60s and payslips, which are easier to forge or misuse, helps ensure that benefit payments are made only to the right people.
The change also aligns with the end of tax credits and the wider rollout of Universal Credit as the main benefit system in the UK.
If you’re planning to apply for Universal Credit, make sure you’re aware of the new identity verification rules. You can no longer use payslips, P60s, or tax credit details to prove who you are online.
Instead, prepare alternative documents, such as your UK passport or Self Assessment details, and be ready for a face-to-face appointment if necessary.
This change could affect thousands of new applicants, so it’s best to check your documents in advance to avoid delays in your claim.
FAQ’s
What documents can no longer be used to verify identity for Universal Credit?
From April 8, 2025, payslips and P60s can no longer be used for online identity verification when applying for Universal Credit.
Why were payslips and P60s removed as ID options?
The DWP removed these documents to improve security and reduce the risk of identity fraud when applying for Universal Credit online.
How can I verify my identity if I can’t do it online?
You can attend a face-to-face appointment or have a biographical phone interview. DWP will advise what you need based on your situation.
Can I still use my UK passport to apply for Universal Credit?
Yes, a valid UK passport is still one of the acceptable documents for verifying your identity online.
Do I need to verify my identity every time I apply for Universal Credit?
Yes, identity verification is required each time you make a new claim to ensure the right person is receiving the benefit.
