The Government has made changes to some benefits. Here’s how they could affect you.

Housing Benefit backdating

If you are of working age and make a new claim or your circumstances change, you can only backdate a claim by one month. Tell your Housing Benefit office about any changes, or a new claim, straight away. A change in circumstances includes a partner, child or other people moving in or out, getting or losing a job, or changing your hours.

Council tax support

Most councils now ask all working age people to pay a minimum amount, even if you’re not working. You could be eligible for support if you’re on a low income or claim benefits. If you receive Universal Credit, you need to claim separately. Contact your council’s benefit department.

Discretionary housing payments

They may be harder to get, with payments for shorter periods and you may need to prove you’re trying to move. For help finding a home with fewer bedrooms, visit Homeswapper, check our website and register with the local authority lettings partner. To make a first claim for a discretionary housing payment, contact your council’s benefit department.

Benefit cap

From autumn, the maximum amount of total benefits you can get in a year is dropping to £20k (£23k in London). There are exceptions, for example, if you live in ‘exempt accommodation’ and not all support counts towards your total. Find out more here or contact us for advice.

Remember

If you need money advice or help completing a form, such as assessments on your ability to return to work, you should get in touch as soon as you receive the documents. If you leave it too long we may not be able to help you in time to meet the deadline, meaning you could miss out on payments. Call us on Tel 0345 111 0000.