Frequently asked questions

Benefit fraud

Our customer service standards

Housing and council tax benefit

Council tax benefit and housing benefit helps people on a low income to pay their rent and council tax.  The amount of benefit you get will depend on your circumstances, and how much rent and/or council tax you pay.

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Local Housing Allowance (LHA)
On 7 April 2008 the Local Housing Allowance (LHA) scheme will be rolled out nationally and will change how we pay housing benefit for all private sector tenants.

Appeals

What you can do if you are not happy with the decision on your housing or council tax benefit.

Backdated claims

Benefit can sometimes be paid before the date you made your claim.

Benefit calculation

Benefit calculation for people of working age, pensioners, non-dependants, second adult rebate and pre-tenancy determination.

Change in circumstances

You must contact us straight away if your circumstances change.

Discretionary housing payments

The discretionary housing payment scheme provides extra help to housing and council tax claimants with housing costs.

Extended payments

Extended payments are paid for an additional four weeks following a claimant's return to work after a long period of unemployment.

Information for landlords

Landlords' rights and duties.

Local Housing Allowance

New claim

Information about claiming and printable forms to apply for benefit.

Overpayments

An overpayment is an amount of benefit that has been paid, but to which there is no entitlement to under the regulations.

Overseas claimants

People from overseas who can claim housing or council tax benefit.

Useful links

Contacts details for organisations who can provide help and advice with your claim.

Contact us

Cotact details for Housing Benefit