Do you now qualify for Housing and Council Tax Benefit?
More people are set to qualify for Housing and Council Tax Benefits with several changes to the assessment criteria coming into effect over the next month.From 2 November 2009, Child Benefit payments will be disregarded in full, meaning that more families will qualify for help towards Housing costs and Council Tax.
There will also be changes to help older people. Those of pension age currently have the first £6000 of their capital disregarded. However, from 2 November 2009 the first £10,000 will be disregarded.
Child maintenance payments have also been disregarded in full since October 2008.
Jane Petty, Deputy Head of Revenues at Winchester City Council, said: “These changes mean that more people will qualify for Housing and Council Tax Benefits. If you think these changes will make a difference to you or someone you know, please contact our Benefits Team here at the City Council.”
You can contact the Benefits Section at Winchester City Council on 01962 848 597 or benefits@winchester.gov.uk
Information on Housing and Council Tax Benefit can also be found on the City Council’s website at www.winchester.gov.uk