Benefit Claimants (Automatic Transfer to Alternative Benefits) Bill

A Bill to ensure that individuals claiming state benefits are automatically enrolled onto alternative benefits to which they are entitled when a benefit ceases to be applicable; and for connected purposes.

Originating House

House of Commons

Last Updated

15 May 2014

In Plain English

AI-generated

This Bill would automatically transfer claimants from a ceasing benefit to other benefits they are entitled to, without needing to reapply. It aims to prevent gaps in support and ensure people receive the right help when their circumstances change.

Key Points

Automatic enrolment of eligible claimants into alternative benefits when their current benefit no longer applies.
Uses data matching and IT systems to identify entitlements and carry out the transfer without a new claim.
Intended to reduce interruptions to support and help claimants access entitled benefits more reliably.
Covers benefits administered by the Department for Work and Pensions and related state benefits.
Requires rules and safeguards to govern the process, including privacy, accuracy and oversight.

Progress

The Bill is at the Second Reading in the House of Commons; if passed, it will move to a detailed committee stage for examination and amendment.

Who is affected?

People who currently claim state benefits and their householdsClaimants who are about to lose a benefit or whose benefit changesDWP staff and contractors delivering benefitsOrganisations and frontline advisers supporting benefit claimants

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

News - Benefit Claimants (Automatic Transfer to Alternative Benefits)

1 Jan 1970

This Bill has been withdrawn and will not progress any further.

This Bill was presented to Parliament on 5 November 2013.

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.

Benefit Claimants (Automatic Transfer to Alternative Benefits) Bill | TrackPolitics