Could someone explain a few things?

[Anonymouse]

The DWP asked for my bank statements. No idea why they're asking me, after all that fuss about them having access to bank accounts - surely they could just bypass me entirely?

Nonetheless, I've been a good little boy and sent them. Job done, I thought.

But they want the same for my ISA. By pure coincidence I've recently put money in it for the first time in years - for I don't know how long, the balance was £0.01; I was keeping it open just in case. But I can't send monthly statements because the app doesn't do them, only yearly.

I went to Barclays and requested a statement. It'll take 48 hours to show on the app.

Last I checked, this was 2025, not 1985. Everything's computerised now, that was the whole bloody point. Why does it take longer than 48 seconds?!

And again, why ask ME?! They HAVE access to my account, they don't need me.

This is not the way I would do things if I were in charge. I would ensure such things were dealt with efficiently, by making proper use of available facilities. They harp on about the DWP's costs - and now I see why: because they're prats who don't know how to use their computer systems properly!

[Jaymoss]

They only I believe have to power to access bank accounts if they suspect fraud. They are simply checking your savings to see if any deductions are needed

[Taf]

Years ago, I had to take my bank statements to the local office for "perusal" at least twice a year. And I had to take receipts for items such as winter coats for the twins, new shoes, school uniform, car servicing, etc., etc.

Even then, they were searching for cash and cheque movements in-or-out of my account, exposing any off-the-books work I could be doing.

I was told that they often targeted Carers, despite all the promises to make our lives easier.

I was also called into the office to "look for work" despite being a Carer meant spending at least 35 hours a week looking after our son.

Now they seem to rely more on the banks letting them know if "large" or "unusual" sums of money move through your account. They certainly tell HMRC of every last penny you earn in interest so that it can be taxed without the need for a tax return. And that'll be 22% now!

[Carth]

I find it strange that in these days of the 'need for digital ID', HMRC don't ask for a photo, passport number and signed documentation from a doctor or solicitor before they take tax from you . . odd how it only works one way

They don’t take tax from you - the employer does, who has the responsibility for making sure you’re "legal" - they then pay this to HMRC…

[VX1953]

I just get State Pension and a small NHS pension, nothing else. The NHS pension goes every month on paying the Fuel (Gas & Electricity) so I never see it in my hands. Now I have to pay Income Tax on my pensions Grrrrr