Tax credit overpayment

[bev309]

I received a letter this morning from DWP advising they had set up a direct debit with my bank to collect 140.00 that I apparently owe them, taking 70.00 for the next two months.
Can they do this without even speaking to me first?!
Thanks

[shopaholic]

Can I ask if it was from your bank or your employer? I know you have said bank, when I got a letter they went straight to my employer. I rang them and made an arrangement to pay them back. Call debt management and make an alternative arrangement before they take the monies back if you can. Someone else may have better advice than me.

[bev309]

It is due to come out of the bank. I just thought they would at least have to speak to me to make an agreement first?!

[des8]

In your position if I disputed the debt, or the payment schedule I would instruct my bank to cancel the direct debit and then i would contact the DWP to sort the matter.