Last Updated On – 03-06-2026
The direct answer is that claimants can contact the DWP by phone by calling the benefit-specific helpline for their claim, such as Universal Credit, PIP, State Pension, Pension Credit, ESA, JSA, Carer’s Allowance or disability benefits.
The DWP uses free 0800 numbers for several new benefit claims, while many enquiry lines currently use 0345 numbers.
A recent announcement also states that DWP 0345 numbers will move to 0800 numbers, helping more claimants contact support without call costs.
This guide explains the main DWP phone numbers, which number to use for different benefits, what information should be prepared before calling, when to call, alternative contact options and what claimants should know about the move from 0345 to 0800 numbers.
Which DWP Phone Numbers Are Available for Benefit Claimants?
The Department for Work and Pensions handles a wide range of benefit services across the UK. Because each benefit has different teams, claimants should avoid using one general number for every issue.
The right contact route depends on whether the person is making a new claim, asking about an existing claim, reporting a change, checking a payment or requesting technical support.
The DWP position is that calls to apply for benefits should be free through its 0800 numbers.
This is important for claimants who may already be dealing with financial pressure and need support without worrying about phone charges.
Free 0800 Numbers for New Benefit Claims
| Benefit or Service | DWP Phone Number |
|---|---|
| State Pension | 0800 731 7898 |
| Pension Credit | 0800 991 234 |
| Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support and Employment and Support Allowance | 0800 055 6688 |
| Personal Independence Payment | 0800 917 2222 |
These numbers are mainly used when someone wants to apply for a benefit. For ongoing enquiries, a different line may be needed.
Key Changes to DWP Telephone Services
Many DWP enquiry lines currently use 0345 numbers. These numbers are usually charged at standard geographic rates and may be included in phone packages.
However, the DWP has stated that if a customer raises concerns about call costs, a callback may be offered.
The announced move from 0345 numbers to 0800 numbers should make DWP contact easier for claimants. Until each line is officially changed, callers should use the latest number published for that service.
What Is the Correct DWP Number for Universal Credit Enquiries?
Universal Credit claimants usually manage their claim online, but phone support is still available. The Universal Credit helpline can help with account access, payments, identity checks, appointments and urgent claim issues.
| Universal Credit Service | Phone Number |
|---|---|
| Universal Credit Helpline | 0345 600 0723 |
| Universal Credit Digital Service Centre | 0345 600 4272 |
| Universal Credit Housing Escalation Enquiry Line | 0345 266 0041 |
| Universal Credit Live Digital Enquiry Line | 0345 606 9970 |
Claimants should use their online journal where possible, especially for non-urgent messages. However, a phone call may be more suitable when there is an urgent payment issue, a problem accessing the account or a need to speak with an adviser.
A welfare benefits adviser described the issue clearly: “I often speak to claimants who are unsure whether to use the Universal Credit journal or the phone line. I usually advise them to call when the issue is urgent, especially if it affects rent, payments or access to the account.”
Which Telephone Numbers Should Claimants Use for ESA, JSA and Other Legacy Benefits?
Some people still receive legacy benefits, including Employment and Support Allowance, Jobseeker’s Allowance and Income Support. These benefits have separate contact routes from Universal Credit.
| Service | Phone Number |
|---|---|
| Legacy Benefit Enquiry Line for ESA, JSA and Income Support | 0345 608 8545 |
| New claims for JSA, Income Support and ESA | 0800 055 6688 |
The enquiry line may be used for payment questions, changes in circumstances, medical evidence, claim updates and letters received from the DWP. Claimants should check whether their issue relates to an existing legacy benefit or a new application before calling.
This distinction matters because calling the wrong department can lead to delays. A claimant asking about an ESA payment should not usually call the Universal Credit helpline unless they have moved to Universal Credit.
How Can Claimants Contact the DWP About Personal Independence Payment?
Personal Independence Payment, often called PIP, supports people with long-term health conditions or disabilities. It has one freephone number for new claims and a separate enquiry line for existing claims.
| PIP Service | Phone Number |
|---|---|
| New PIP Claims | 0800 917 2222 |
| PIP Enquiry Line | 0345 850 3322 |
The PIP enquiry line can help with claim progress, assessment questions, award reviews, payment problems and changes in health or daily living needs. Callers should have their National Insurance number ready, along with any recent DWP letters.
For PIP, it is especially useful to keep notes of phone calls. Claimants may want to record the date of the call, the name of the adviser if given, and what was discussed. This can help if there is a future dispute or follow-up.
Which DWP Phone Numbers Are Used for Disability and Carer Benefits?
The DWP also manages several disability and carer-related benefits. These services often involve detailed personal information, so claimants should prepare before calling.
| Benefit or Service | Phone Number |
|---|---|
| Disability Living Allowance Enquiry Line | 0345 712 3456 |
| Attendance Allowance | 0345 605 6055 |
| Carer’s Allowance | 0345 608 4321 |
| Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit | 0345 758 5433 |
| Access to Work | 0345 268 8489 |
Attendance Allowance is generally for people over State Pension age who need help because of illness or disability. Carer’s Allowance is for people who provide regular care to someone receiving a qualifying disability benefit. Access to Work can support disabled people in employment or those starting work.
A support worker explained a common problem: “I have seen carers call the wrong line because they are trying to discuss both their own Carer’s Allowance and the disabled person’s benefit at the same time. I normally remind them that each benefit may have its own team and permission may be needed before details can be discussed.”
How Can State Pension and Pension Credit Claimants Reach the DWP?
Pension-related enquiries are common, particularly for people approaching retirement age or checking entitlement to additional financial support.
State Pension Contact Numbers
| Pension Service | Phone Number |
|---|---|
| State Pension Claims | 0800 731 7898 |
| State Pension Enquiry Line | 0345 301 3011 |
The State Pension claims number is for people starting a claim. The enquiry line is more suitable for questions about payments, existing claims or pension details.
Pension Credit and Retirement Support Services
| Pension Service | Phone Number |
|---|---|
| Pension Credit Claims | 0800 991 234 |
| State Pension and Pension Credit Enquiry Line | 0345 606 0265 |
| Future Pensions Enquiry Line | 0345 300 0168 |
| International Pensions Enquiry Line | 0345 601 0008 |
| Pension Tracing Service | 0345 600 2537 |
Pension Credit can provide extra financial support for people over State Pension age on a low income. Some people miss out because they assume they are not eligible. Calling the Pension Credit claim line can help clarify entitlement.
What Are the Most Frequently Used DWP Enquiry Numbers?
The DWP has many enquiry lines, but some are used more often than others. The table below brings together key numbers claimants may need.
| DWP Service | Phone Number |
|---|---|
| Legacy Benefit Enquiry Line | 0345 608 8545 |
| Universal Credit Helpline | 0345 600 0723 |
| PIP Enquiry Line | 0345 850 3322 |
| Social Fund Enquiry Line | 0345 603 6967 |
| Child Maintenance 2012 Enquiry Line | 0345 266 8792 |
| State Pension and Pension Credit Enquiry Line | 0345 606 0265 |
| Jobcentre Enquiry Line | 0345 604 3719 |
| National Insurance Number Appointments | 0345 600 0643 |
| Debt Management Enquiries | 0345 850 0293 |
| Bereavement Support Payment Enquiry Line | 0345 608 8601 |
| Warm Home Discount Scheme Enquiry Line | 0345 603 9439 |
| Winter Fuel for non-benefit customers | 0345 915 1515 |
Claimants should remember that some services may have regional or specialist lines, especially for child maintenance, technical helpdesks and employer-related enquiries.
What Information Should Be Prepared Before Calling the DWP?
Before calling the DWP, claimants should prepare the details likely to be requested for security checks. This helps the adviser find the correct record and reduces the chance of the call being delayed.
Useful details include:
- National Insurance number
- Full name, address and date of birth
- Benefit name and claim reference
- Recent DWP letters
- Bank or payment details if relevant
For sensitive benefit enquiries, the DWP may not discuss details unless the caller passes identity checks. If someone is calling on behalf of another person, permission may be required before the adviser can continue.
When Is the Best Time to Call the DWP?
DWP phone lines can become busy, especially after weekends, bank holidays and payment issue periods. Calling earlier in the day may help, although waiting times can still vary.
Typical Opening Hours
Most DWP telephone services operate on weekdays during standard office hours. Exact opening times can vary by service, so claimants should check the relevant GOV.UK page before calling.
Ways to Reduce Waiting Times
Callers may improve their chances of getting through by choosing the correct number, preparing documents before dialling and avoiding peak times where possible.
It can also help to write down the reason for calling in one or two sentences. This makes it easier to explain the problem clearly when connected to an adviser.
Are There Alternative Ways to Contact the DWP Besides Calling?
Phone support is useful, but it is not always the only option. Universal Credit claimants can often use their online journal to report changes, send messages and check updates.
Other contact options may include GOV.UK online services, letters, Jobcentre appointments and secure account messages. For some issues, online contact may be faster than waiting on the phone.
However, urgent payment problems, account access issues and complex benefit questions may still need a phone call.
Why Are DWP 0345 Numbers Being Moved to 0800 Numbers?
The move from 0345 numbers to 0800 numbers is intended to reduce call costs and make DWP services easier to access. This is particularly important for people who rely on benefits and may not have spare money for long calls.
Freephone numbers are usually easier for claimants because they remove uncertainty around call charges. They also create a clearer contact system, especially when many people already associate 0800 numbers with official support lines.
Until the transition is complete, claimants should continue using the official published number for the service they need.
What Should Claimants Remember Before Contacting the DWP?
For anyone asking how do i contact dwp by phone, the answer depends on the benefit or service involved. New claims often use free 0800 numbers, while many existing enquiry lines currently use 0345 numbers.
The most important step is to choose the correct department before calling. Universal Credit, PIP, Pension Credit, State Pension, ESA, JSA, Carer’s Allowance and disability benefits all have separate contact routes.
Claimants should prepare their National Insurance number, claim details and any relevant letters before calling. They should also check for updated contact information as DWP 0345 numbers move to 0800 numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to call a DWP 0800 number?
Calls to DWP 0800 numbers are generally free from UK landlines and mobile phones.
Can the DWP call a claimant back?
Yes. If a claimant is worried about call costs, the DWP may offer a callback depending on the situation.
What documents are needed before calling the DWP?
Claimants should usually have their National Insurance number, claim reference, personal details and recent DWP letters ready.
Can someone else speak to the DWP for a claimant?
Yes, but the DWP may need consent or formal authority before discussing personal claim information.
Are DWP phone lines open at weekends?
Most DWP phone services operate on weekdays. Weekend availability is limited and depends on the service.
What should a claimant do if they cannot get through?
They can try again later, use an online service where available or check whether another official contact route is listed.
Will all DWP 0345 numbers become 0800 numbers?
The DWP has announced that 0345 numbers will move to 0800 numbers. Claimants should use official published numbers until each change is confirmed.
What is the quickest way to contact Universal Credit?
For non-urgent issues, the Universal Credit journal may be quickest. For urgent payment or access problems, the helpline may be more suitable.
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