Thousands of people could be eligible for a 'special payment' from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) due to a major benefits mistake.
The government department confirmed that some people who made new claims for Income Support from January 31, 2011, when they should have instead been told to make a new claim for income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).
Because of this, they have been underpaid or overpaid. Now, the DWP is urging people who may have been affected to contact their local Jobcentre Plus to straighten things out.
Depending on your unique situation, you may also be entitled to a lump sum as you should have been claiming a specific benefit, Chronicle Live reports. Read more: DWP cost of living payments and support - three dates before Christmas to be aware of Read more: DWP five day warning over £150 fuel bill discount launch DWP guidance on the dedicated page on GOV.UK explains: "If you made a claim for Income Support on or after January 31, 2011 due to a disability or health condition, you may be entitled to a special payment.
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