Housing Benefit
Am I entitled?
If you are making a new claim, the easiest way to check whether you may be entitled to Housing Benefit is to use the online benefits calculator before completing the online form. If you are entitled to make a claim for Universal Credit there will be a link at the end of the benefits calculator which you can use to go to the relevant website. In the limited situations where new claims for Housing Benefit can be made the benefits calculator will provide a link to the form.
Sending Housing Benefits your Documents
You are able to send queries to the Housing Benefits team and upload documents:
Housing Benefits - send your document
COVID-19: Test and Trace Support Payment
In some circumstances, if you are required by law to self-isolate from the 28th of September you may be supported by a payment of £500.
Council Tax and Benefit Account
Your online account will enable you to, view your council tax details, report a change of address, sign up for a direct debit, search for a council tax band, view business rates and other benefits online.
Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP)
If you're struggling to pay your rent, you may be entitled to Discretionary Housing Payments.
Making a Benefit Claim
Universal Credit is operational in the Mendip District Council area and so there are only limited circumstances where a new claim for housing benefit will be applicable.
Changing your claim
It is your responsibility to inform the Council of changes in your circumstances.
Benefits Calculator
Our benefits calculator will help you find out what benefits you can claim.
Reporting Benefit Fraud
The Department for Work and Pensions Single Fraud Investigation Service (SFIS) will deal with all types of welfare fraud. SFIS will operate to a single set of policies and procedures and will provide a nationally flexible service to tackle all welfare benefit fraud.
Household Support Fund
The Household Support Fund is now closed. If you are a Somerset resident in financial distress there may be other help available.
Current Local Housing Allowance Rates
Local Housing Allowance rates with effect from April 2020
Disagreeing with a Benefit Decision
What you can do if you disagree with a decision we have sent you about your benefit.