Many people receiving benefits from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) recently noticed unexpected payments in their bank accounts. Alongside the money was a mysterious code: DWP RFD.
These payments came without any prior warning or explanation for some, leaving many confused and curious.
What Is ‘DWP RFD’?
The code DWP RFD stands for DWP Refund.
This means the money is likely a repayment or correction from the DWP. It usually happens when:
- You were underpaid in the past (due to errors or changes in your circumstances).
- A previous calculation of your Universal Credit (UC) or other benefits was wrong.
- Your benefit entitlements increased without being applied in time.
In short, it’s the DWP making things right.
Real People Share Their Experiences
One person shared online:
“I received an unexpected £63 from DWP. The bank statement said: my National Insurance number and then DWP RFD. I’m on Universal Credit and didn’t apply for anything else. I’ll probably call them to ask, but has anyone else received this?”
Others replied with helpful advice:
- “Check your Universal Credit journal online. They usually leave a message if there’s a refund.”
- “Look at the payments section on your UC account. The updated statement should explain the change.”
So, if you got this payment, your best move is to log into your online DWP account and check your messages or payment history. If you still can’t find anything, give them a call.
Why You Might Have Received a Refund
There are several common reasons for a DWP refund:
- Underpayment – You were owed more money than they gave you before.
- Delayed updates – A change in your circumstances (like rent, earnings, or disability status) wasn’t factored in on time.
- System correction – Sometimes, internal audits or error checks spot mistakes in your past payments and issue refunds automatically.
These refunds can be for small or large amounts and can appear without notice.
What Should You Do If You Receive a ‘DWP RFD’ Payment?
- Don’t panic – It’s not a scam.
- Log into your Universal Credit or benefits portal and look for:
- Notes in your journal
- Updates in your payment breakdown
- Call the DWP if nothing is listed but you want clarity.
- Keep records of the payment in case of future questions.
FAQs
1. What does ‘DWP RFD’ mean on my bank statement?
DWP RFD stands for Department for Work and Pensions Refund. It usually means you’ve received a repayment or correction for a previous underpayment on your benefits.
2. Do I need to pay this money back?
No, not unless the DWP contacts you and explains otherwise. If it’s labeled as a refund (DWP RFD), it’s usually the money you were already entitled to but hadn’t received yet.
3. How do I check the reason for this payment?
Log in to your Universal Credit online account or DWP benefits portal and:
- Check your journal for any messages
- Review the payments section to see updated statements
If nothing is listed, you can call the DWP for clarification.
4. Could this affect my future benefits?
Usually not. If it’s a refund for a past underpayment, it won’t impact your future benefit entitlement. But always keep a record of the payment and monitor your upcoming benefit calculations.
