If you are getting Income Support, Job Seekers Allowance or Pension Credit you will normally get all of your eligible weekly rent paid by housing benefit, and all of your council tax paid by council tax benefit.

This is the maximum amount we can pay you, but it may not be the full amount you are charged (if, for example, your rent contains ineligible service charges). Please also remember that other people living in your home can have effect on your claim. For example a deduction may be made from the maximum benefit if you have non-dependants living with you who are working.

If you do not get any of the benefits listed above, then the council has to compare your weekly income and any savings you have with standard amounts that the Government sets as ‘needs levels’ for individuals, couples and families which are known as ‘applicable amounts’.

Applicable amounts vary for different situations, which is one reason why it is very difficult to compare your benefit with a friend or neighbour. It depends on your age; whether or not you have a partner or children; or if someone in your household is disabled.

It is made up of Personal Allowances, for general needs, and Premiums, for special needs. Your Applicable Amount, and how it has been calculated, is always shown on your decision letter. You need to check this as carefully as you check the income and capital that we have used when working out your benefit entitlement, and ask us to explain anything you do not understand or that you think may be wrong.

If your weekly income is less than, or the same as, your Applicable Amount, we will pay the maximum benefit (not necessarily your full rent, remember), less amounts for any non-dependant charges that have to be applied.

If your weekly income is more than your Applicable Amount we will take 65p off your maximum Housing Benefit, and 20p off your maximum Council Tax Benefit for each £1 your income is more than your Applicable Amount.

Can I get an estimate of how much Benefit I may be entitled to?

Yes, you can use the online benefits calculator to do your own ‘trial calculation’.

Or you can call 01233 331111 and ask for an advisor to do this for you; or visit the Civic Centre or The Fairings.