Find out if you qualify
You call us on 01394 444838 or
use an online calculator (new window) to get an
indication of your entitlement to benefit but please note that the
results returned should not be used as a
definitive indication of your entitlement to benefit.
Complete the application form
To make your claim for Housing or Council Tax Benefit you will
have to complete an application form. This can be done in a variety
of ways:
- By completing our online application form.
(sorry, this form is currently not working)
- By downloading and printing off the paper application form
below:
Housing Benefit & Council Tax Benefit claim
form (new window PDF
108KB)
Complete the form and post it to us at Suffolk Coastal District
Council, Melton Hill, Woodbridge IP12 1AU - please email us at
benefits@suffolkcoastal.gov.uk
or call us on 01394 444838 to let us know you
intend to send us an application form, this may mean we can start
your benefit from an earlier date.
- By calling us to request a that a form is sent to you or to
arrange a home visit by one of our benefit officers to help you
complete the form. Our telephone number is 01394
444838.
- If you claim Income Support or Job Seekers Allowance the
Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will give you form HBCT1 for
you to claim Housing Benefit. You can claim Council Tax Benefit on
the same form. Fill in the form and send them back to the DWP
straight away. They will send the form to us with proof of your
Income Support claim.
With your application form we will require proof of your income,
savings, rent details (for Housing Benefit claims) and
identification. Please find detailed below the type of evidence
required to support your claim:
Once we have received your application form and your supporting
documentation we will process your application and calculate your
benefit entitlement. Letters will be sent to you explaining how
this has been calculated and detailing your award. Please ensure
you check these letters thoroughly to ensure the correct
information has been used to calculate your benefit.
The service you can expect from us
We are committed to providing you with a service that is:
- Fair - by processing your benefit application
impartially.
- Efficient - by issuing benefit payments
promptly and accurately.
- Accountable - by meeting Government
standards.
To help us provide a high quality service:
- Please reply quickly to our letters.
- Please give us all the information we need (we cannot work out
your benefit without it).
- Tell us immediately about any changes in your
circumstances.
- Please fill in and return any application form we send you
without delay.
- Tell us immediately if you do not hear from us when you think
you should.
Help and advice
For general questions or advice or if you need a home
visit because of age, disability or other circumstances
please call us on 01394 444838 or email
benefits@suffolkcoastal.gov.uk.
You can also get help and information by
visiting our offices in Woodbridge and Felixstowe.
For free independent help and advice on Housing and Council
Tax Benefit contact your local Citizen's Advice
Bureau.