Bradford Council is stepping up its campaign to encourage people to check their entitlement before national changes are made.
From 6th October 2008 the rules for backdating claims for Council Tax and Housing Benefit will change. People should act now to ensure that they are not missing out on money they should be getting to help pay Council Tax and rent bills.
For pensioners, the changes will mean that the time limit for Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit backdates will be cut from a year to three months.
For those under 60 the new rules mean their time limit for receiving a backdate will be cut from a year to six months and they must be able to evidence why they couldn't make a claim at the time.
Martin Stubbs, Assistant Director for Revenues & Benefits at Bradford Council, said: “It is vital that pensioners apply now in order not to miss out. If pensioners apply now their award could be backdated for up to a year, but if they delay until after the 6th Oct they will miss out. If a couple were entitled to a full rebate on a Band B property they could be miss out on a backdated lump sum of over £700.
“Pensioners who apply now could find their council tax bills significantly reduced or even paid in full, yet national estimates show that barely half of those entitled actually claim the money that they are due.
“Some pensioners are missing out on a 100% Council Tax rebate, and on top of this they may be due a backdated lump sum. And it’s this lump sum which is being reduced.”
Councillor Mohammad Masood portfolio holder for Corporate Services said “I am concerned that people will be missing out because they are unaware of these changes. I would urge anyone especially pensioners to find out if they are eligible before time runs out."
Did you know…
…people who work full time, own their home, rent a private property, or live with a partner may also be missing out without realising it.
…you don’t have to be claiming any other benefits to get help with Council Tax and rent.
… you can have a private pension and still be entitled to this money.
… if you have over £16,000 in savings and capital you will not be entitled to help with your council tax and / or rent unless you are getting Pension Credit Guarantee.
… if you are getting Pension Credit Guaranteed you will probably be entitled to 100% reduction in your bill.
… even if you applied before and were not successful, changes to benefits levels could mean that you now qualify
The council has set up a telephone line especially for people to find out if they qualify. To find out your entitlement to help with your Council Tax and /or rent bill call 01274 432774 and leave you name address and telephone number and a trained advisor will call you back.
Officer/Contact
Martin Stubbs
Assitant Director Revenues and Benefits
Telephone: 01274 432056
Media Relations Officer
Sue Butterfield
Telephone: 01274 433526
Fax: 01274 432005
Email: press.communications@bradford.gov.uk
Date: 25.09.08
