Who can claim Housing Benefit?
If you pay rent to a landlord you should apply for Universal Credit for help with your housing costs.
You can claim Housing Benefit if you are of State Pension age or live in temporary or supported accommodation.
Housing Benefit entitlement will normally start from the Monday following your date of first contact with a designated authority (Local Council, Department for Works and Pensions).
Who can claim Local Council Tax Reduction?
Anyone who has a liability to pay Council Tax can apply for a Local Council Tax Reduction, even if you receive a discount on your Council Tax (you live alone), if you work and have a low income you can also apply.
In some cases, even though you have a liability to pay Council Tax you would not be entitled to a Local Council Tax Reduction. For example when someone
- Has income which is too high to qualify
- Is of working age and has capital or savings in excess of £6000 (pensionable age level is £16000)
Council Tax Reduction Scheme 2022/2023
Online Self-Service
The Benefit Forms page provides instant online access to apply for Housing Benefit, Local Council Tax Support or to report changes in circumstances.
What you can do using Self-Service
- Access the online Benefit Calculator to work out entitlement
- Apply for Council Tax Reduction/Housing Benefit
- Report a change in circumstance
- Apply for a Discretionary Housing or Hardship payment
- Appeal a benefit decision
- Submit evidence/information/documents
- Find our when you will reach state pension age
- Make a payment
Contact Us
Our Reception is a self-service area. Phones and computers are available to use for Council Services.
Open times: Monday - Thursday 8.30am to 5pm, Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm
There are no face to face advisors for Council Tax and Benefits. Documents and letters can be posted into the letter box located at the Civic Centre.
To speak to an advisor please call 01785 619478