Help shape Hertfordshire’s future – have your say on changes to local government

Our communities are in the best place to tell us what’s important to them, so your voice matters. Join us at our resident engagement event in Hertsmere on Monday 8 September from 6pm to 8pm at the Civic Offices, Elstree Way, Borehamwood, WD6 1WA.

Find out more and register your place

Backdating a benefit claim

Backdating Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support

If you claim Housing Benefit or Council Tax Support, your benefit usually starts from the Monday after we receive your claim. In some circumstances, we can backdate your claim to start earlier.

There are different rules for backdating claims depending on your age.

If you or your partner are of pensionable age:

Your claim will automatically be backdated for a maximum of three months depending on your circumstances. There's no need for you to make a request.

If you and your partner are of working age:

You can apply for backdated benefit for a maximum period of one month from the date of your request. However, we can only backdate your claim if you have a good reason as to why your claim is late.