Look for "DWP RFD" for potential government refunds

People who receive benefits from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) should check their bank statements for a specific six-letter code: "DWP RFD." This code indicates that they may be getting a refund from the government. The DWP issues refunds for different reasons. For example, a refund may occur if someone was underpaid and did not receive the full benefits they were entitled to. Additionally, those who received a hardship payment during certain periods may also qualify for a refund if their previous reassessment requests were missed or denied. Hardship payments are designed to help individuals who have had their Universal Credit benefits reduced due to sanctions or penalties. These payments can help cover essential expenses like food and housing costs. However, people must repay these funds once their sanction period ends. To qualify for a hardship payment, individuals must meet specific criteria. They need to be at least 18 years old, experience financial hardship, and have taken steps to find additional support. They also need to comply with work requirements set by the DWP. Applications for hardship payments can be made by contacting a local Jobcentre, using the Universal Credit online journal, or calling the helpline. Once an application is submitted, the DWP will acknowledge receipt within six weeks and may take up to 13 weeks to make a decision. Hardship payments provide up to 60% of the person's daily sanctioned amount. This support continues until the person receives their next payment or until the sanction period ends, whichever comes first. For more information on eligibility and application deadlines, individuals can refer to the DWP's resources.