Can my
benefit be backdated?
Your claim for benefit normally starts from the Monday following
the date of receipt of your claim form. If there is a reason
why you were unable to make your claim earlier, you can ask us to
consider backdating your benefit. You must show ‘good cause’
and clearly state why you failed to claim at the earlier
date. Your request will be decided on your individual
circumstances and you should provide as much supporting information
and evidence as possible.
There are no time limits on making a backdating request.
From 6 October 2008, Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit can
be backdated for up to six months if you are working age.
People of pension age may have their claims backdated
for three months.
You can make a request for backdating at the same time as
making your claim for benefit:
- by filling out Section 16 on the claim
form or
You can make a request after you have made your claim for
benefit: