Benefits
From April 2013...
From April 2013, the Government is making changes to the
benefits system. This means that the amount of benefit that many of
you can claim will change.
It’s up to you to get ready for these changes, but we
are here to help.
We can help you manage the change
Affinity Sutton has a number of services that can help
you to get informed and cope with the changes that are coming.
These services are free.
Find out how we can help you
manage the changes...
What's changing?
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A limit to how much people can receive
The Government is introducing a limit on the amount of
benefit people can receive.
At risk are those out of work, with a large
number of children and/or paying a high rent.
The Department for Work & Pensions will
write to those affected with guidance on how to cope with the
changes. Don’t ignore this guidance.
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More bedrooms than are needed?
Residents with more bedrooms than they need could find out that
their housing benefit is significantly reduced.
It’s up to them to make up the difference and
avoid going into rent arrears. Advice includes:
- Moving to a smaller home
- Asking a family member or lodger to move
in
- Increasing household income or reducing
expenditure
- Applying to your local council for a
discretionary housing payment
Read our Under-Occupation guide for local
information on managing the Bedroom Tax.
View our Under-occupation
FAQs to find out more about the change.
More information
on under-occupying (pdf 410
kb)
Looking to down-size?
(pdf 36kb)
Considering taking in a lodger?
Read our FAQs.
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Who will have to start paying Council Tax?
The Government’s new Council Tax
Support scheme will affect those of working-age.
Depending on their personal circumstances, it
will require some residents to pay towards their Council Tax bill,
even if they have not had to do so before.
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Disability Living Allowance (DLA) will be replaced
From April 2013, all new claimants will have
to undergo a medical assessment. Those already claiming DLA will
also be asked to attend a medical assessment at some point in the
future to check whether their benefits should continue.
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An all-in-one benefit…
From October 2013, Universal Credit
will replace most working-age benefits like JSA, tax credits and
housing benefit.
It’s all about making it simpler to claim,
promoting financial independence and encouraging people into
work.
Residents will cope best if they have internet
access, a usable current bank account and the skills to manage
their money effectively.
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