Housing benefit - change of circumstances
What should I do if there is a change in my circumstances?
You must tell us straight away, in writing, about anything that could affect your benefit entitlement.
We may ask for more information or proof of the change in order that your benefit is worked out correctly. If you do not tell us straight away, then this could mean you are overpaid benefit which you will have to pay back. It could also mean that you miss out on benefit you would otherwise be entitled to.
Examples of changes you need to report to us are:
- Changes in your rent, unless you are a council tenant.
- Changes in your earnings or other income.
- Changes in who lives with you.
- Your Income Support or Jobseekers Allowance stopping.
This list does not include everything you need to tell us about. If you have any doubt about whether you need to tell us about a change, then please contact us. Remember it is a criminal offence not to tell us of a change which affects your benefit claim!
I am starting work. Can I still get benefit?
You can still get benefit when you are working, provided that you are still on a low income. If you are already on benefit before you start work, you should tell us straight away, even if you are receiving Income Support or Jobseekers Allowance. Do not rely on anyone else to tell us.
When you are working, we will need to see proof of all your income and capital, including proof of your earnings.