Are You Missing Out?

The Council is now offering a new service on its website to all residents of the Borough. It is called "OPENGedling" and you can register as a user simply by clicking here open.gedling.gov.uk.  You can also email enquiries to OPENGedling@gedling.gov.uk .

Are you on a low or fixed income?

If so, you may be entitled to one of these benefits:

• Council Tax Benefit
• Housing Benefit

If you are not receiving one of these benefits and you think you might qualify simply complete one of our application forms. If you are in any doubt – apply – it won’t cost you anything and it could save you money.

All information is treated in the strictest confidence.

What is Housing and Council Tax Benefit?

This is help with paying your rent and/or your Council Tax. They can be claimed by anyone on a low income with savings of less than £16,000, unless you qualify for Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit when there is no capital limit.  You may be entitled to one or both of these benefits.

How are these benefits calculated?

This will depend on:

• Your income
  
  
• Your savings
  
  
• Your ‘needs allowance’ (the amount the Government says you need)
  
  
• The amount of rent or Council Tax you pay
  
  
• Who else lives in your home

Is any of my income disregarded?

When calculating Housing and Council Tax Benefit we ignore Disability Living Allowance, Attendance Allowance and War Pensions however you must still tell us about these.

If you work, we count wages after tax, National Insurance and half of any payments to a personal pension.

What about my savings?

The first £6,000 if you or your partner are over 60 and a sliding scale applied up to £16,000.

What if other people live in my household?

A deduction will be made from both benefits for any non-dependants who live in your home not including your partner. However if you receive Attendance Allowance or the care component of Disability Living Allowance, we can disregard them from your claim.

What if my circumstances change?

If you make a claim for benefit you must notify us in writing immediately if anything changes. For example: increase or decrease in your income or savings. There is further evidence available in the change of circumstances page.