DWP: the benefit claims site 'does not work properly' with Mac, Unix or IE 7 and above

'You may wish to claim another way' says DWP advice screen

The Department for Work and Pensions' website that lets users apply for services and benefits does not work with most contemporary web browsers, its "What do I need?" section admits.

Under the "Operating systems and browsers" section of the site that informs claimants of the software required to make a web-based claim, the advice reads:

"The service does not work properly with Macs or other Unix-based systems even though you may be able to input information.

"You are likely to have problems if you use Internet Explorer 7, 8, 9 and 10, Windows Vista or a smartphone. Clearing temporary internet files may help but you may wish to claim in another way," the advice continues.

The DWP goes on to explain how the service was "designed to work with" Internet Explorer versions 5 through 6, as well as Netscape 7.2 - a browser released in 2003 from AOL's now long-defunct Netscape division.

Firefox 1.0.3 – the most recent version of Firefox is 20.0.1 – is also compatible.

The site admits that "many of these [browsers] are no longer available.

The fact that the site does not feature direct compatibility with smartphone browsers may be of particular concern to many users, as tablet and smartphone ownership continue to catch up with and, in certain sectors, overtake the use of PC and laptop devices.

While the DWP says it is "considering how best to provide this service in future" for modern browsers, it currently suggests claiming via Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Attendance Allowance (AA) claim forms on GOV.UK, or by simply calling its benefit enquiry line between 8am and 6pm on Mondays to Fridays only.

The DWP told Computing that, with a DLA claim system overhaul due to be complete in June 2013, this technical obstacle will soon become an irrelevance. A full written statement in this vein has been promised, and this story will be updated accordingly in due course.

UPDATE: a DWP spokesperson told Computing:

"DLA is being replaced by Personal Independence Payment, which will use a new application process. We are reviewing the existing DLA application system, and in the meantime anyone who is unable to use the existing online system to apply can always phone to make a claim."