Finance and Asset Management Service

HOUSING BENEFIT

Housing Benefit is administered by the council on behalf of the Government. It is governed by laws and regulations laid by the government and is largely funded by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). If a council tenant, any award of Housing Benefit is paid directly into the applicant's rent account. In all other cases Housing Benefit is paid by cheque to the tenant or the landlord.

Up to 100% rebate of rent may be available if you are on a low income, although restrictions on this may apply if you rent the property from a private landlord.

Housing Benefit does not cover mortgage interest payments, fuel costs and some service charges.

You must inform the Council of any change to your circumstances which may affect your Housing Benefit.

Please note that Housing Benefit is normally only granted from the Monday following the date your application is received by the Council.

Housing Benefit is subject to strict controls to ensure that benefit is paid to those in real need of it. This means that verification of the applicant's financial resources is essential and all applicants are required to provide evidence of identity, income and capital to support the answers given in the application form.

You can download an application form online or obtain one from any local Council office or by calling the Housing Benefit Section on 01563 576985.

Find your nearest Local Council Office

If you think you may qualify please apply now.