Real Time Information bulk data matching initiative

29 September 2014

From October 2014 the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) are going to carry out an exercise matching HMRC Real Time Information (RTI) data with data held in the benefit system. A circular has now been issued giving information about the exercise and how it will affect local authorities in particular.

The DWP circular explains that they are working with HMRC to use RTI to help identify fraud and error in the benefit system.

From October 2014 DWP will carry out an exercise matching RTI data with data held on:

· Income Support

· Jobseeker’s Allowance

· Housing Benefit

· Employment and Support Allowance

· Pension Credit

· Carer’s Allowance

The circular gives information about this exercise and how it will affect local authorities.

Affected readers are urged to use the enclosed incident and enquiry form (LAST 9) to raise any incidents or ask any questions about this exercise.