HB - Reporting Change in Circumstances

smj43

I'm likely to have a change in financial circumstance within the next few months. I've heard from others that once reported, recalculation could take some time. I'm worried that my claim would be delayed during the process and I would fall into rent arrears. Is this something that could happen? Does anybody have experience of doing this?

nannytone_2

if your rent account sell into arrears while they were calculating it, it doesnt really matter as the benefit would be backdated to the date that you pout in the change of circs

smj43

nannytone wrote: »

if your rent account sell into arrears while they were calculating it, it doesnt really matter as the benefit would be backdated to the date that you pout in the change of circs

Sorry, I should have clarified, I am paying rent to a private LL and I really don't want to risk falling behind in my rent, regardless of whether I can backdate it.

Runningwithscissors

The length of time taken to recalculate your claim probably depends upon where you are, and the procedures followed by your local HB dept (and if they have any backlog), and also if you provide all of the information needed in order to re-calc your claim or not. Can you take your proofs and see a HB assessor at your local council? Where I live it's possible to do that, and your claim is reassessed straight away (the same day).
The best thing to do is to ensure that you have all the proof that you possibly can before you report your change in circs. For example, if you are starting a job you won't have wage slips, but does your local HB dept have a form that your new employer can complete, showing your expected earnings? (It might be a good idea to check your local council's website for info). Or you could get a letter from your new employer stating your expected earnings, or you may have a contract.
Your local HB dept may be able to calculate your claim based on your expected earnings, which would minimise any delay, but you need to be aware that if they do this and the earnings are incorrect, there may be an overpayment.
Whatever the change, ensure that you report it as soon as possible, in order to avoid any overpayment.

Runningwithscissors

....further to my last post, it may be worth your while telephoning your local HB office and asking them this question. Explain that you are worried about getting into rent arrears, and ask them what the best way of reporting a change is - and they can then answer you with reference to exactly what their procedures are, rather than me telling you how it is where I live. You don't even have to refer directly to your claim - just ask how long something would take - it may put your mind at rest. Try not to worry. : )