Backdating housing benefit

Backdating of housing benefit is the process of paying benefit, in certain circumstances, from an earlier date than was originally decided. In order to award a backdated payment we must be satisfied that good cause was shown for failing to make the claim on time.

You can only ask for backdated benefit if there is a reason you were unable to apply for your benefit earlier. If you disagree with the date your claim starts from for any other reason you can appeal against the decision.

About this service

We can consider backdating benefit up to 52 weeks from the date of the request.(Please note rules are changing from october 2008 and the number of weeks we can backdate may be reduced.) 

If you disagree with the decision you have the right to appeal to an independent tribunal.

The following reasons may not be good cause for backdating a council tax benefit claim:

• failing to provide a complete application
• failing to respond to our correspondence                  

What you must do

In order for us to process a request for backdated housing benefit you must make your application in writing, either on a benefits application form requested from us or by letter.

When applying, you must state your reasons for failing to make your claim on time. This is called good cause.

What we must do

We must:

• process your application and provide you with a written decision
• inform you that you have the right of appeal to an independent tribunal if your application is unsuccessful                  

What happens next?

Normally we will start your claim from the Monday after we receive your application. It is therefore very important that you get your application to us as soon as possible because it affects the start date of your benefit claim.

You have four weeks to return your application form. If you take longer than 4 weeks to return the form you might lose your entitlement to some of your benefits.

Some frequently asked questions

Can my claim be backdated?

You can ask for your claim to be backdated for up to 52 weeks from the date you make the request, which must be in writing.Please note rules are changing from october 2008 and the number of weeks we can backdate may be reduced.

You must have a good reason for not applying earlier. You can request backdated benefit on the housing benefit claim form.

For example if you have been in hospital and are unable to make a claim.