Important Changes to Housing and Council Tax Benefit

From 2nd November 2009, child benefit will no longer be counted in the calculation of Housing and Council Tax Benefit.

 

If you are receiving Housing and Council Tax Benefit at that time, we will recalculate your entitlements and notify you of your revised awards.

 

If you apply for benefits on or after 2 November 2009 we will still need to see proof of any child benefit that you receive, showing the names of the children it is payable for. We will disregard the child benefit income; however the proof is important evidence to make sure you get the right amount of benefits for your household.

 

If you are on a low income, you will be more likely to qualify for help with your rent and/or council tax from November 2009. If you want to make a claim for Housing and/or Council Tax Benefit you can download a claim form, ring us on 01933 231692 and we will send you one or visit the Tithe Barn Road Offices.
(N.B. We cannot help with mortgage payments)

 

The other important change from 2nd November 2009 will affect claims from those who have reached the qualifying age for State Pension Credit.

 

From this date, the £6,000 capital disregard has been raised to £10,000. This means that the first £10,000 of all capital will be ignored if you have reached the qualifying age for State Pension Credit. The upper limit of £16,000 still applies which means, that unless you are receiving Guarantee Pension Credit, you will not qualify for Housing and Council Tax Benefit.

 

If you are receiving Housing and Council Tax Benefit at that time we will recalculate your entitlements and notify you of your revised award.

 

For further information about money, taxes and the benefit system, please visit the government's website. http://www.direct.gov.uk