Introduction
Have you ever seen 0800 023 2635 flashing on your phone and wondered what it’s all about? This freephone number crops up when dealing with benefit calls — and it’s enough to raise eyebrows. In this article we’ll unpack everything: who might be calling, what’s legitimate, what’s not, and how you can protect yourself.
Why you might see a call from 0800 023 2635
When the number 0800 023 2635 appears on your caller ID, it often indicates an outgoing contact from the Department for Work & Pensions (DWP).
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The DWP uses this freephone line for outbound calls about benefit changes, especially involving Universal Credit or ESA transfers.
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According to MoneySavingExpert and other forums, the number may also be legitimately used for claimant-commitment reviews, benefit sanction warnings, or jobcentre follow-ups.
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However — and importantly — many users report that the call could be a spoof or scam using the number. The number being associated with the DWP doesn’t guarantee authenticity.
In short: yes, the number can be genuine, but you must remain alert.
How to distinguish a legitimate benefits call from a scam
Since scam calls often use legit-looking numbers (call-spoofing), you’ll want to apply some checks. Think of it like checking the label on a medicine bottle before you take it.
Legitimate call features
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They often mention that they will leave a message in your online benefit journal so you can verify the call.
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The official DWP tends not to ask for full bank details, full National Insurance number, or passwords over the phone. George might say: “We will send you a letter” rather than “Tell me your card number now.
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They may call you in relation to an ongoing claim — you will be aware of the claim.
Signs of a possible scam
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Caller insists you give full bank account or credit-card details.
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Caller pressures you: “You must answer now or your benefit will stop.”
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Caller claims they are from the DWP but cannot quote part of your case reference or direct you to log into your online journal.
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The number appears unannounced, with no prior correspondence. Many users report it being used by scammers.
Quick checklist when you receive 0800 023 2635
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Check your online benefit journal (for UC claimants) for any message about a call.
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Ask the caller for a case reference number and then call DWP back using a known genuine number (not the one they give).
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Never give out your bank details, PIN, or NHS number.
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If the call seems suspicious, hang up, block the number, and report the incident to the ICO or the DWP fraud line.
What the call might actually be about
Here are some genuine reasons you might receive a call from this number:
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Claimant commitment review: Your work coach at Jobcentre Plus may call to check your status.
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ESA to Universal Credit migration: If you claim ESA and are required to move to UC, the DWP may call to discuss that process.
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Benefit sanction warning: If you missed an appointment or haven’t complied with your claimant commitment, the call may serve as a reminder.
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Identity or eligibility check: They might run security questions to verify you — but remember, they should not ask for full sensitive details like your full bank PIN over the phone.
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Routine update to contact or circumstances: Your benefits may require you to update address, income, or household changes.
Knowing the underlying reason helps reduce anxiety when the number appears.
Should you answer the call?
One of the big questions: Do I have to answer a call from 0800 023 2635?
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If you’re expecting a call (e.g., you recently applied for benefits or you’ve been notified of a review), then yes — it’s wise to pick up or at least check.
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If you’re not expecting any contact or the caller seems unusual — you may choose not to answer. The DWP can still communicate via letter, email, or your journal. Forum posts show claimants not answering and still proceeding with their claim.
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Remember: picking up doesn’t commit you to divulging any personal information. You’re allowed to verify who is calling.
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If you choose to wait: check the DWP’s published log, your journal messages, or call back via an official number.
Real-life example:
Sarah is juggling a part-time job and claiming Universal Credit. One afternoon, the number 0800 023 2635 appeared on her phone. She hesitated — she hadn’t had any letters or messages. The voice on the line said: “We’re calling from the DWP about your ESA to UC migration.” The voice asked her a few security questions (but not for her full bank details). Sarah politely stopped the call and called her online journal. No message appeared. She then dialled the genuine DWP contact number and confirmed that no call had been made from that number. It turned out the call was spoofed, and she blocked the number and reported the incident. She also updated her journal and kept a log of the call for her records. This example underscores how the number may be used in both legitimate and fraudulent ways.
Key steps to protect yourself from call scams
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Treat any un-announced call with caution — especially when it involves personal or financial details.
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Save the number 0800 023 2635 in your phone book as “DWP Outbound” only if you have a current DWP benefit claim.
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Always cross-check your online benefit journal for messages.
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If in doubt, hang up and call back using the DWP’s official number (published on gov.uk).
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Use strong passwords for your benefit account and enable any available security features.
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If you suspect fraud, report it to the DWP’s fraud line and the ICO. The FCA may also have guidance.
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Stay informed via Citizens Advice or MoneyHelper about the latest scam trends.
When you legitimately owe action to the DWP
If it turns out the call is legitimate, here’s how you can prepare:
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Have your claimant reference number or Universal Credit journal access ready.
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Be ready to provide name, postcode, and last three digits of your National Insurance number (but not full number unless secure platform says so).
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Gather information on recent income, bank account used for your payments, any changes in your circumstances (job, address, childcare).
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Ask for a follow-up in writing or via your online journal, so you have proof of what was discussed.
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If unsure about your obligations (for example under ESA or UC), seek advice from Citizens Advice or your job coach.
Common concerns:
Myth: If I don’t answer the call from 0800 023 2635, my benefit will automatically stop.
Truth: Not necessarily. If you miss a call, the DWP typically attempts other methods of communication such as a letter or message in your journal. However, if the call was part of an appointment you agreed to, missing it could trigger further checks or a sanction.
Myth: The number is always a scam number.
Truth: The number is a valid DWP outbound number but is frequently spoofed by scammers. You must verify.
Myth: I should always give my bank details if the caller says it’s the DWP.
Truth: Never give full bank details or passwords. Legitimate DWP officials will not ask for PINs or full account numbers on the phone.
Conclusion
In short: the number 0800 023 2635 is worth saving if you’re interacting with the DWP, but it’s also worth verifying. It can signal an important conversation about your benefits, or it might be a spoofed scam trying to catch you off-guard. Keep your benefit account secure, stay alert to unexpected calls, and always verify first. If you’re ever unsure — call the DWP via a known official number or contact Citizens Advice for guidance. Stay safe, stay informed, and keep your claim accounted f
Also Read : How to Use WhatsApp Web Blackberry Style Complete Guide
FAQ
What is the phone number 0800 023 2635 used for?
This number is used by the DWP for outbound calls to benefit claimants (e.g., about Universal Credit reviews, ESA transfers) but it may also be used by scammers via spoofing.
Is 0800 023 2635 a genuine call from the DWP?
While the number is associated with the DWP, there are many reports of spoofed calls using the number
What should I do if I get a call from 0800 023 2635?
Check your online benefit journal, ask the caller for a reference number, and call back via a published official DWP number. Do not share sensitive details unless you’re certain it’s legitimate.
Could the call from 0800 023 2635 be a scam?
Yes. Many users have reported suspicious behaviour when called from that number (e.g., asked for bank details, pressured for immediate action).
Do I have to answer a call from 0800 023 2635?
No—but answering helps if you are expecting a call regarding your benefit claim. If you’re not expecting anything, you may choose to let it go and instead verify via your journal or by contacting DWP later.
What information might they ask for when calling from 0800 023 2635?
Legitimate calls might ask for your name, date of birth, postcode, parts of your National Insurance number or benefit claimant reference — but they should not ask for full bank account details, PINs, or passwords.
