Thousands of benefit claimants across the UK have recently spotted unexpected payments marked as “DWP RFD” in their bank accounts, sparking confusion and concern. Is it a refund? A scam? A surprise cost of living bonus? If you’ve received one of these mysterious deposits, you’re not alone—and you’re right to question it.
Here’s exactly what “DWP RFD” means, why it’s happening now in 2025, and how you can tell if it’s a genuine payment.
Meaning
The code “DWP RFD” stands for Department for Work and Pensions Refund. It’s a legitimate payment reference used when the DWP repays money it owes to a claimant, typically due to:
- benefit calculation errors
- delayed income updates
- appeals or reassessments
- transition from legacy benefits to Universal Credit
- missed or late uprating of entitlements
These payments range from £5 to £150 in most cases and are not part of scheduled support like cost of living grants.
Timing
So, why is this happening now?
Since spring 2025, the DWP has been conducting internal audits and system corrections, especially linked to:
- a glitch in the Real-Time Information (RTI) system used to assess claimant earnings in late 2024
- ongoing transitions from Tax Credits to Universal Credit
- backdated payments for appeal cases and benefit recalculations
As a result, many people are getting unannounced refunds, showing up as DWP RFD in their bank statements—often accompanied by their National Insurance number.
Verification
Worried it might be a scam? Here’s how to check if your DWP RFD payment is genuine:
- log into your Universal Credit journal or online DWP account
- check for a matching entry in your payment history
- do not respond to texts, emails, or calls asking you to confirm or claim the refund
- if in doubt, call the DWP using an official number
If the payment is real, it will appear clearly in your benefit log.
Scam Warning
Unfortunately, scammers are taking advantage of the confusion. Fake texts and emails are circulating, urging people to click links to “verify” or “claim” their DWP refund. These are scams designed to steal your information.
Action Fraud UK has confirmed a spike in phishing attempts impersonating DWP refund notifications.
You do not need to confirm anything to receive a real refund. Genuine refunds are automatic and need no action.
Comparison
Here’s how DWP RFD compares to other common DWP payment codes:
| Payment Code | Meaning | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| DWP RFD | Refund | Underpayment correction |
| DWP COL | Cost of Living | £299 or £300 grants |
| DWP UC | Universal Credit | Monthly entitlement |
| DWP CHB | Child Benefit | Weekly or monthly child payment |
Understanding these codes helps you spot what’s legit and what needs checking.
Reminder
If you’ve received a DWP RFD deposit:
- it’s likely real—no need to apply or confirm
- plan your budget accordingly, especially if it’s a one-off
- avoid scams by ignoring messages asking you to claim or verify it
- contact DWP through official channels if you’re still unsure
Welfare advocates are calling on the DWP to improve communication. “If refunds are due, people deserve an explanation,” said Charlotte Dean, a leading welfare rights expert.
For now, though, the DWP RFD code is one to watch—and one that could show up again if audits continue through 2025.
FAQs
What does DWP RFD mean?
It stands for Department for Work and Pensions Refund.
Is the DWP RFD payment real?
Yes, if it appears in your benefit journal or account.
Do I need to apply for the refund?
No. Refunds are automatic and need no action.
How much is the typical RFD payment?
Usually between £5 and £150, depending on your case.
How do I avoid DWP refund scams?
Ignore links in texts/emails. Check your official DWP account.
