Benefit changes

More people can now get help with their rent and council tax following changes to housing benefit and council tax benefit schemes.

If you have been unsuccessful in claiming these benefits in the past because your income or savings were too high, it may be worth trying again.

The changes relate to:

• Child benefit.  This is no longer counted as income when calculating housing and/or council tax benefits.
• Savings (including capital) for people over 60.  The level above which savings and capital are taken into account for housing and council tax benefit purposes has increased from £6,000 to £10,000.  This means the first £10,000 of any savings and/or capital is now disregarded.  Capital includes investments and property but not the home you live in.  Please note there is no entitlement to housing and/or council tax benefit if your savings and capital exceed £16,000.

For more information and to make a claim, please call 020 8207 7404 or pop in to our offices in Borehamwood, Bushey or Potters Bar – full contact details.