To ask on AIBU rather than universal credit helpline

[moremelonadeplease]

......how the hell I authenticate my identity when none of the selected agencies seem to be able to.

Have done my claim for UC but need to verify my identity. Shelve tried all the selected organisations and inputted DOB, address, licence number etc but they can't identify me. I have been on hold on the universal credit helpline most of the day and am frustrated as I'm already not being paid a certain benefit (currently out of pocket by hundreds and using bereavement allowance to make up for it) because of their mistake but I seem to be getting nowhere. I know it's only to enable the claim to be done quicker but I have already been told they will not back pay anything for the benefit I'm not receiving and I can only get it paid when I'm on UC.

Can anyone help?

You should be able to do it online but if you can’t, can you get the job centre with your ID instead? Get it done in person

They turned me away last time and told me I needed to do it online and use the helpline if I needed further support. Might just have to go in again. So frustrating as I'm not sure what exactly I need to prove ID and will have to traipse in with the kids on the off chance JC will be more helpful than last time!

Is this the UK Verify thing? Have you definitely tried all 7 providers? ie
Barclays
CitizenSafe
Digidentity
Experian
Post Office
Royal Mail
SecureIdentity

FWIW I hear it's a bit rubbish and doesn't work for some people who don't have a large enough digital footprint. Maybe try the JobCentre if all else fails. And put in a complaint if you do lose out on benefits through the claim being processed slowly because of this (they might give you a special payment if you keep complaining about maladministration and follow the complaints procedure to the end with complaints to the ICE etc).

Sorry it sucks

Thanks, it only gave me 4 options as it said the others weren't likely to be able to verify me. Will have another look. From what I read it may be because I don't have a big enough digital footprint. I've never had a phone contract/credit card etc. I will be putting in a complaint I think. Was told there's be opportunity to bring it up on my UC claim but doesn't look to be.

Yeah to be fair if you haven't had any luck with 4 of them it seems unlikely the other 3 will work, but might be worth ago if you're desperate.

• a go, not ago