How is benefit calculated?

There is a set way of calculating benefit that is designed to reflect the needs of you and your family and is based upon age, disabilities and some other personal details.

If you receive Jobseeker’s Allowance (income based), Income Support or Pension Credit Guarantee and have no other people living with you, you will probably be entitled to 100 per cent benefit.

If you have other people living with you, such as a working son or daughter, or if your income is higher then you will usually get less than the maximum benefit.

If you qualify for benefit it will normally be awarded from the week after we receive your claim.

Benefit can be backdated if you would have been entitled to it earlier and can give us a good reason why you did not claim it. If you are over 60, you may be able to get your claim backdated for 12 months.

Any Council Tax benefit you are awarded will be credited to your Council Tax account and you will be sent a reduced bill.

If you are awarded housing benefit, this will be paid to you or your landlord.