Change in Circumstances

If you claim benefits and your circumstances change you need to tell us as soon as possible, at least within one calendar month of when the change happened.

If you do not tell us about any changes the amount of benefit you receive could be too much or not enough. If you delay in reporting changes to us, we could be pay you too much benefit. This is known as an overpayment, and you will need to pay back the amount of benefit we overpaid you. It may also mean you are underpaid what you are entitled to and not get all the help available to you.

Claiming benefits that you are not entitled to is illegal. It's important that you make sure we're aware of any changes in your circumstances that could affect your claim listed in the section below.

It is the responsibility of the person claiming benefits to tell us about any changes and provide the evidence for the change.

Changes you need to tell us about

You need to tell us if any of the following happens to you or anyone living with you.

• Change in income from employment/self-employment
• Change in income from benefits
• Change in rent or tenancy details
• Start or finish a job, or have a change to working hours
• A birth or death in the household
• Change of address (this includes if you move to another flat or room at the same address)
• Anyone moves into or out of your household, including a partner, child, or lodger
• Changes to any capital, savings and/or investments
• Changes to pensions or any other income
• Starting or finishing, school, education, training, or an apprenticeship
• Someone goes into hospital, a care home or supported accommodation

Please note: if you claim Council Tax Support but do not claim Housing Benefit or Universal Credit, you need to tell us if any non-dependant adults are residents in your household, but you do not need to tell us about their income.

If you or your partner are getting Pension Credit please see the next section for more information.