Benefits

Do you need help to pay your Council Tax?

 

Do you (and your partner) have less than £16,000 savings or are Pensioners with more than £16,000 in savings?

 

Are you on a low income or getting income support or jobseekers allowance?

 

The amount of benefit granted is means tested which takes into account the amount of council tax you have to pay, your household finances and the number of people who are living in your home. In most cases people who have more than £16,000 in savings do not qualify for Council Tax Benefit; however, if you are a Pensioner ,who is receiving Pensions Credit Guarantee, and have more than £16,000 in savings you could still qualify for council tax benefit.  

Housing benefit is to assist people on a low income to pay their rent to their landlord. The amount of benefit awarded will depend on the rent you pay, your household and financial circumstances. .

 

Housing benefit is not awarded to you automatically - you must claim it. You cannot claim housing benefit if you live with and pay rent to a close relative or in law.  If the relative from whom you rent the flat does not live there you can claim hosing benefit provided by that tenancy is let on a commercial basis. Benefit is usually awarded from the Monday following the date a claim is received by the Council.

 

If you are in receipt of housing benefit or council tax benefit you must tell the council immediately of any change in your circumstances which may affect your entitlement.