08000232635 – Is This DWP Calling About Universal Credit or a Scam?

Have you recently received a call from 0800 023 2635? Were you left unsure whether to answer, call back, or ignore it altogether? Thousands of people across the UK have asked the same questions. With concerns about scams, data breaches, and fraud rising, understanding who’s behind the call is more important than ever, especially when it may relate to your benefits.

In this news-style investigation, we uncover the purpose behind 0800 023 2635, how it’s connected to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), and how you can safely respond to these calls.

What Is 0800 023 2635 and Who Uses It?

0800 023 2635 is a UK freephone number operated by BT. It is widely used by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to make outbound calls to benefit claimants across the UK.

This includes individuals involved with Universal Credit (UC), Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Pension Credit, and Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

Despite its official use, this number does not serve as a public helpline. If you try calling it back, you’re unlikely to reach a DWP department. Instead, it’s reserved for outgoing communications usually following a written notice or an online message regarding a claim.

Why Might DWP Be Calling from 0800 023 2635?

Calls from this number often relate to claims, updates, or transitions between benefit systems. Recently, it has been linked with the managed migration of claimants from ESA to Universal Credit.

Some people report receiving letters notifying them of upcoming benefit changes, which are then followed by a phone call from this number. Others have received direct calls about scheduled assessments or requests for additional information.

A number of individuals have shared experiences where they missed the call, checked the number online, and discovered it was associated with the DWP. Many wondered whether they were required to answer and if ignoring the call would result in a delay or missed opportunity to complete their benefit assessment.

Is 0800 023 2635 an Official DWP Number or a Scam?

While 0800 023 2635 is officially used by the DWP, that does not guarantee that every call appearing from this number is genuine. Phone number spoofing is a growing concern, and scammers have been known to manipulate caller IDs to appear as though they are from government departments.

Legitimate calls from DWP staff will typically include the caller identifying themselves, stating their department, and referencing your current or past claims. They will not ask for full bank details, passwords, or PINs.

On the other hand, scam calls often involve pressure tactics, vague language, and urgent requests for sensitive information. If the caller cannot provide proper identification or insists on immediate action without explaining the context, it may not be safe to continue the conversation.

How Can You Confirm If a Call from 0800 023 2635 Is Genuine?

When in doubt, verification is key. DWP representatives will never object if you ask to confirm their identity.

If you receive a call from this number, you should:

• Ask the caller to state their full name, department, and the purpose of the call.
• Make a note of any reference numbers, claim information, or case details mentioned.
• Check your recent DWP correspondence, especially letters or messages via your online Universal Credit journal.
• Hang up and call back using an official DWP contact number listed on the GOV.UK website if you’re unsure.

Verifying a caller’s identity is a legitimate and responsible action, especially in a time when fraudulent phone activity is on the rise.

Is 0800 023 2635 the Universal Credit Contact Number?

No, 0800 023 2635 is not an official inbound helpline for Universal Credit. It is used strictly for outbound communication. If you need to contact Universal Credit or another DWP service directly, you should use the verified helplines listed below:

Service	Contact Number	Availability
Universal Credit Enquiries	0800 328 5644	Mon–Fri, 8am–6pm
Universal Credit Full Service	0800 328 9344	Mon–Fri, 8am–6pm
Universal Credit Textphone	0800 328 1344	Mon–Fri, 8am–6pm

These are the primary channels for initiating communication with DWP regarding Universal Credit or other benefits.

What Should You Do If You Miss a Call from 0800 023 2635?

If you’re currently involved in a DWP claim and you miss a call from this number, it’s advisable to check your online Universal Credit journal, your voicemail, or any recent DWP letters. If the call was important, DWP may attempt to reach you again or send a follow-up message.

In some cases, a missed call will result in a written request or form being posted to your address. That said, delays could occur if essential information is not confirmed by phone.

If you’re unsure why you were contacted, or if you weren’t expecting a call at all, it’s best to get in touch with DWP through one of their official contact numbers.

Can You Request Written Communication Instead of Phone Calls?

Yes. Individuals can request to receive communication by letter or email instead of over the phone. This option is particularly useful for those with hearing impairments, mental health conditions, or who simply feel more comfortable dealing with official matters in writing.

To arrange alternative communication, contact DWP using your online account or the appropriate helpline and explain your preference. They are legally required to provide reasonable adjustments for claimants who request them.

What Are People Saying About 0800 023 2635?

The number has generated mixed reactions across online forums and review platforms. Reports suggest that it has been searched over 526,000 times, with over 800 comments.

Many users confirm receiving genuine DWP calls from this number, particularly about Universal Credit claims and ESA transitions. However, others have raised concerns about repeated calls without voicemails, which created uncertainty about the call’s authenticity.

Here is a summary of the most common user-reported experiences:

Type of Feedback	Description
Confirmed DWP Calls	Updates about claims, benefit transitions, or appointments
Missed Calls	Multiple call attempts without voicemail or follow-up
Scam Concerns	Suspicious calls requesting personal or financial details

These varied experiences highlight the importance of verifying all calls before engaging.

How Can You Protect Yourself from Potential Scam Calls?

Although the number is used by DWP, spoofing remains a serious risk. To stay safe:

• Never provide bank details, passwords, or National Insurance numbers over the phone.
• Always request the caller’s full identification and cross-check it with official DWP records or contact numbers.
• If unsure, hang up and reach out to DWP using a verified number.

If you believe you’ve received a fraudulent call:

Action	Contact
Report to Action Fraud	www.actionfraud.police.uk
Report to Ofcom	www.ofcom.org.uk
Block the Number	Use your device’s call-blocking features or a spam call filtering app
Register with TPS	www.tpsonline.org.uk (Telephone Preference Service)

Reporting suspicious calls helps prevent scams and protects others from falling victim.

What Should You Do If You Receive a Call from 0800 023 2635?

If you’re expecting contact from DWP, whether it’s about your Universal Credit application, ESA reassessment, or PIP claim, then it’s a good idea to answer. This could help speed up the processing of your claim or ensure your benefits are not delayed.

If you’re not expecting a call, proceed cautiously. Ask the caller to identify themselves and, if you’re uncertain, end the call and contact DWP directly. Always prioritise your personal data and security.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it mandatory to answer calls from 0800 023 2635?

No, but if you’re expecting DWP contact, missing the call could delay your benefit processing. They may follow up with a letter if needed.

Can this number be spoofed by scammers?

Yes. Scammers can use spoofing techniques to impersonate official numbers. Verification is essential.

Will DWP send a letter if I don’t answer their call?

In many cases, yes. If they cannot reach you, DWP often follows up with a letter or message through your online benefit account.

What should I do if I accidentally gave my personal details to a suspicious caller?

Contact your bank immediately, report the incident to Action Fraud, and alert DWP via their official helpline.

Is this number related only to Universal Credit?

No. It is also used for ESA, PIP, Pension Credit, and Jobcentre Plus communication.

How can I confirm a call was from DWP?

Check your claim records, ask the caller for full details, and call DWP back using numbers on GOV.UK.

Are there safer ways to communicate with DWP?

Yes. You can request written or email communication or contact them through your Universal Credit online journal.