The DWP can deduct from Universal Credit for a range of debts: advance repayments, overpayments, benefit fraud, third-party deductions (rent arrears, council tax, energy, water) and court fines. The total is capped at 25% of your standard allowance in most cases.
Third-party deductions are also capped at three at a time. If you're already at the maximum, additional creditors have to wait.
If a deduction is causing hardship — meaning you can't afford essentials — contact the DWP Debt Management team and ask for the deduction to be reduced or paused. Free debt help can support you through this conversation.
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