Declare inheritance to avoid committing benefit fraud

Probate beneficiaries who receive benefits are being reminded to declare their inheritance to avoid committing fraud.

Following the prosecution of a man from Rugby, who was found guilty of claiming more than £24,000 after receiving a substantial inheritance, Britons are being urged to report any changes in financial status to prevent benefit fraud.

The Coventry Telegraph reported that Ian Reynolds, of Biart Place, failed to declare an inheritance of £25,000 and carried on claiming Housing Benefit, JobSeekers Allowance and Council Tax Benefit for five years.

During a hearing at Rugby Magistrates Court Mr Reynolds pleaded guilty to three counts of benefit fraud and was given 200 hours of community service.

The defendant was also ordered to pay £200 in court costs and was given a 12 month supervision order. 

Adam Norburn, head of resources at Rugby Borough Council, said:  “The council is determined to find and prevent abuse of the benefits system and will take appropriate action to protect public money.”

Published by Phil Hammond