We sometimes provide extra services for some of our residents. For example, in communal areas in blocks of flats we may provide a cleaning service, or gardening for communal areas. Also some tenants may have to pay a service charge for communal lighting. Not all service charges are covered by Housing Benefit and these will need to be paid for by the tenant. Sheltered Housing Supporting People Grant Sheltered housing tenants who receive Housing Benefit will have their support charges paid for by a Supporting People Grant. Tenants who do not get Housing Benefit will have to pay these support charges themselves.
Other benefits
There are other schemes and tax benefits available which could help to increase your income. Each scheme has its own rules and regulations and you will need to check these to see if you are eligible to apply. You can get advice from the Benefits Agency and the Citizens Advice Bureau. They include the Working Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit, both are operated by the Inland Revenue. There is also the Job Seekers Allowance and Income Support which are operated by the Benefits Agency.
Council Tax
You can apply for Council Tax Benefit just like Housing Benefit through your local council. Some councils use the Housing Benefit application as a Council Tax Benefit application too. Always check and make sure you are using the right forms and make sure that you get the application in as soon as possible.