Benefits FAQs
Click a question to reveal the answer.
Q: How long does a claim take to process?
Q: From what date will my benefit be paid?
Q: Can I claim Housing Benefit if I work?
Q: I am self-employed - what information do I need to provide?
Q: What is Local Housing Allowance?
Q: What LHA Category/Bedroom Rate do I qualify for?
Q: I am a joint tenant. How will this affect the LHA I receive?
Q: Why do I have an overpayment?
Q: How will the overpayment be recovered/paid back?
Q: I might be starting work - how this will affect my benefits?
Q: Can my landlord be paid my Housing Benefit?
Q: How do my savings or capital affect my benefit?
Q: Why has my entitlement decreased when I have had no change in income or rent?
Q: I receive Housing Benefit but cannot pay my full rent. Can I get any other help?
Q: What is a non-dependant deduction?
Q: I think you have calculated my benefit incorrectly?
Every time your benefit is calculated you will receive a decision in writing regarding your entitlement. You should check this letter carefully. If any of the information is wrong, missing or you are unsure about it, you should contact the Benefits service as soon as possible.
If you think a decision we have made is wrong you can:
- Ask us for an explanation which we can give you over the phone or in writing.
- Ask us to look at our decision again. A request for us to look at your claim again must be in writing and signed by you.
- Make an appeal against the decision. This must be made in writing. If your request is later than the one month from the date of our original notification letter, you should give reasons why it is late.
To find out more about making an appeal, please read our leaflet Your Appeal Rights in Related Downloads.
Q: When will the April 2011 LHA changes affect me?
Q: What is a Shared Accommodation Rate?
