Suffolk carer faces £9k repayment after benefits ruling

Richard Munson, a 60-year-old carer from Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, has been informed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) that he must repay nearly £9,000 in Carer’s Allowance. This decision came after he was told in September 2023 that he was no longer entitled to the benefit due to not reporting a part-time job he held. Munson disputes this claim, stating he consistently updated the DWP about his employment status. Initially receiving payments from late 2020 until mid-2023, Munson had given up his full-time job to care for his disabled wife, Wendy. After questioning the DWP's calculations, the amount owed increased from £6,801 to £8,523. He expressed frustration over the lengthy process, noting that it took three years for the DWP to determine he was overpaid. Despite appealing the decision, Munson opted for a repayment plan of £30 per month, which will take approximately 25 years to settle. The loss of his weekly benefit of around £70 has significantly impacted his financial situation, making it increasingly difficult for him and his wife to manage their expenses. Munson criticized the benefits system, describing it as a minefield that discourages genuine claimants. He highlighted the stigma surrounding benefits recipients and the challenges faced by those who genuinely need support. The DWP has been contacted for further comment regarding this case.