Backdating housing benefit claims

For example:

• if you were ill and had no-one to make a claim on your behalf

• if you did not understand that you could claim benefit, perhaps because of age, inexperience or language difficulties

• if you have suffered a recent family bereavement.

A claim may be backdated for a maximum of one month from the date of your claim (if you are working age), or three months (if you are of pensionable age).

What happens when you make a backdated claim

Your claim will be considered by a benefits officer. The more information and evidence you give in support of your claim the quicker a decision can be made.

Sometimes we may need to write to you for more information or to ask you to come in for an informal interview.

If we decide we cannot backdate your claim we will explain the reasons for our decision in a letter. You will then have the right of appeal against our decision not to backdate your claim.