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Housing Benefits - Council Tax and Benefits

Housing Benefit is a means trusted benefit, to assist those on a low income with their rental costs. It's claimed as a household, not by individual household members.

Am I eligible for Housing Benefit?

To be eligible for Housing Benefit, you should: 

  • Be liable to pay rent for your property.
  • Be living in the property as your main home.
  • Have less than £16,000 in savings.

How can I apply?

Pension Age Claimants

If you and your partner are eligible to receive State Retirement Pension, you may also be eligible for Local Council Tax Support (LCTS) and Housing Benefit. You can apply for both benefits at the same time, using the form below. 

Working Age Claimants

If you and/or your partner are not eligible for a State Retirement Pension, you can apply for Council Tax Reduction (CTR) and Housing Benefit with two separate applications. Plus, if you're self-employed, you need to tell us about your earnings before you can claim Housing Benefit Self-employed Earnings form (opens new window)

What documents do I need? 

Before starting your application, make sure you have supporting documents ready. This will include your National Insurance number and we may ask for other documents including proof of earnings, proof of residency and/or proof of rent.

For further information on what proof you can supply please see:  Supporting Documents Accepted by Basildon Council

Change of Circumstances 

If something changes that could affect your claim i.e. change of address, you need to tell us as soon as possible. You will be issued a penalty of up to £70 if you fail to report a change in your circumstances within one month of the change.

Report a Change of Circumstances affecting your Housing Benefit/Council Tax Support here Report a Change affecting Housing Benefit and/or Council Tax Support