How to Claim

You can find out if you qualify for any Housing Benefit/Council Tax Reduction using our Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction Calculator.

If you qualify and want to claim housing benefit and/or council tax reduction you can claim online right now using the Online Claim Form.

You can:

• complete the form online and submit it to us immediately;
• partially complete and save the form, and return to it at any time;
• complete and submit the online form at the Customer Service Centre

You do not have to use the calculator to make an online claim, but if you do, the information you have already entered into the calculator will automatically be saved into your online claim.

Remember that your claim will usually start from the Monday after we receive it, so if you think you may be entitled, submit your claim as soon as you can.

When you submit your claim, you will be told what evidence you need to supply. You can bring the evidence to the Customer Service Centre, or post it to us at the address below.

If you bring your evidence in person to the Customer Service Centre, our advisors will check the details and information you have supplied and advise you if you are eligible for the Fast Track scheme, which provides an entitlement assessment within 48 working hours.

Please use the address below only for posted items:

All evidence supplied will be copied and returned to you.

Need advice about your claim?

• You can call the Benefits Helpline: 01473 432700
  (From 08:30 - 17:00)
• You can call in to the Customer Service Centre.

If you cannot easily get to the office due to mobility or other problems

• We may be able to visit you at home
• You can contact our Visiting Team on 01473 433809

View the legal authorisation allowing the Council to to accept electronic claims.