Repaying overpayment of housing benefit!

caz1965

Yes, she used to live with us.
I didn't know she was getting a lot more money. If I did, I would have told the housing benefit and she would have had to pay the difference as a non dependant adult, (they are saying £45.00 a week) that is why she kept her mouth shut, so she didn't have to pay it.
She told me it was a training course and the job centre were paying for her son's nursery. and if she didn't do it, she would get her benefits stopped.
Not nice when your child lies to you and leaves you in debt,
I could kill her.

caz1965

Just checked my email and this is from my housing officer.

"I want to complete an income and expenditure form with you".

I just wish Christmas was over and done with, I wouldn't have to worry so much then.

joeblack066

Hi! ***HUGS*** this is a horrible situation for you to be in, in every way. Try to see the email from your housing officer as a positive thing........it will give you the opportunity to show your ability to pay, and to give your side of the events. As far as Christmas goes, if you are there with your younger kids and they know you love them, you will still be able to enjoy it, in a more non-materialistic way. I know, I had to do it when mine were younger.

tealady

Hello Caz. Don't worry about this too much. As long as you are paying your current rent plus something off the arrears that you can afford then I'm sure the HA will be OK with this. If you like, post up your SOA to see if we can help you save some money.
They can't take what you don't have.

caz1965

Thanks for all the replies!
I rang the housing officer who is dealing with this (was very nervous)
She was lovely on the phone, and wants to help me do a financial statement, to help me get the debts lowered.
I told her about a crisis loan, that is being taken at £20.00 a week,a nd she is going to write to the social security for me too.
You just want to bury your head in the sand and hope it goes aay, but obviously it doesn't.
At least I can face up to it and admit I am struggling. It is very hard to admit you can't cope.
thanks again.

jacnorm

I too have been in this situation a couple of years ago and the housing benefit staff helped me come to a payment arrangement that I was able to afford and my housing association were also very understanding and fair. Remember they have come across this many times before.