Benefit entitlement is calculated weekly, even though you may pay your rent or Council Tax monthly, and is normally granted from the first Monday following a written claim.
Benefit can be backdated| to an earlier date.
If the claimant or partner is aged 60 or over, benefit can normally be backdated for a period not exceeding 3 months. If the claimant or partner is aged under 60, benefit can normally be backdated for a period not exceeding 6 months.
If you are under 60 and would like benefit to be backdated you will have to show that you had good reason why you did not apply at an earlier date. Claims must be made in writing.
It is therefore important for you to send in your benefit claim form, together with all supporting information, as soon as possible. Further details on what information we require to assess a claim can be found on the information required to make a claim| webpage.
The amount that you will receive is dependent on:
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the amount of your Council Tax and/or rent,
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the size of your family (if any),
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the money coming into the household and
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how much in savings that you have.
If you require any further information, or advise on whether you may be entitled to Housing or Council Tax Benefit please contact our confidential Benefits Advice Line on (0116) 257 2703 or email benefits@oadby-wigston.gov.uk|. Alternatively you can use our online enquiry form|.