HC Deb 06 November 2002 vol 392 cc300-1W
Paul Holmes

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what provisions he plans to introduce for disability claimants to claim their benefits via ACT. [79153]

Malcolm Wicks

From April 2003, the normal method of payment for benefits and pensions will be direct into bank and building society accounts (including the Post Office card account).

All customers, including those in receipt of disability benefits, will be supplied with information which clearly sets out their account options. They can choose the bank or building society account (including the Post Office card account) which best meets their needs and circumstances.

Paul Holmes

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions on what date each disability benefit switches to payments via ACT. [79154]

Malcolm Wicks

From April 2003 the normal method of payment for benefits and pensions will be direct into bank and building society accounts (including the Post Office card account).

The Department will invite existing customers to convert to payment into an account on a benefit by benefit basis. The precise dates for inviting disability benefit customers are yet to be finalised. However current proposals are that customers in receipt of Invalid Care Allowance will start to be contacted in June 2003 and customers in receipt of Disability Living Allowance and Attendance Allowance will start in August 2003. Customers do not need to take any action until they receive a letter from the Department about the change.