Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit

These benefits are to help people on a low income to pay their rent and council tax. The amount of any benefit depends on your particular circumstances and takes into account;

• your and any partners income and savings
• who lives in your household
• the amount of rent and council tax you pay
  

If you rent a private property we may not work out your benefit on the full rent charged. If you claimed benefit before 7 April 08 we referred your rent to the Rent Service for a decision on the maximim rent we can use. The page The Rent Service and Housing Benefit contains further information.

If you are thinking of renting a private property or are already a private tenant and wish to claim benefit go to the Local Housing Allowance information, this includes the maximum rent levels we can use to work out your benefit.

Second Adult Rebate is a type of council tax benefit. It is not based on your income but the income of other people of 18 years and over who live in your home. It is to help you if you would have received a council tax discount if the other people were not living with you. See the section Second Adult Rebate for more information.

Use our web calculator to find out if you may qualify for benefit before you make your claim.

Due to the complexity of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit our website only offers information and guidance. If you want to discuss your individual circumstances please contact us.

Office opening hours
Monday to Thursday 8.30am to 5.00pm
Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm.
You do not need an appointment but if you prefer you can arrange one by calling (01642) 393829.

Our helpline (01642) 393829 opening hours
Monday to Wednesday 8.00am to 6.00pm
Thursday 8.00am to 7.00pm
Friday 8.00am to 5.30pm
Saturday 10.00am to 1.00pm
A telephone answering service operates outside these hours.

Home Visits
If you have difficulty calling into our office we offer a home visiting service. Call our visitline on (01642) 526674 to arrange an appointment.