Backdating your benefit claim
New rules came in on 6 October 08 reducing the maximum period a benefit claim can be backdated.
If you or your partner are 60 years or over, Housing and Council Tax Benefit may only be backdated a maximum of 3 months before the date of your request. If you and any partner are under 60 years benefit may be backdated for a maximum of 6 months.
The Backdating your claim page explains how to make a request and the rules on when benefit may be backdated.
Child maintenance
From 27 October 08 the full amount of child maintenance you receive is disregarded from your weekly income, previously up to £15 was disregarded. You must still tell us of the amount you receive but it will be deducted from the weekly income we use to work out your benefit.
Employment and Support Allowance
From 27 October 08 for new customers, Employment and Support Allowance replaces Incapacity Benefit and Income Support paid on incapacity grounds. Existing Incapacity Benefit or Income Support customers will initially continue to receive their existing benefits, so long as they satisfy the entitlement conditions.
Further information can be found on the DWP website using the link on the left-hand side.
