Benefits
You may be able to get help with paying your Council Tax if you claim Council Tax Benefit. Private tenants and council tenants may also get help with paying their rent by claiming Housing Benefit. These benefits are based on your income, level of rent and/or council tax and your personal situation.
Contact Details:
Address: Benefit Services, Southampton City Council, Civic Centre, Southampton
Postcode: SO14 7LY
Telephone: 023 8083 2031
Minicom: 023 8083 2798
Email: benefit.services@southampton.gov.uk
Who can claim?
Anyone who has to pay rent for his or her home can claim. It doesn't matter if you pay your rent to Southampton City Council, a private landlord or a Housing Association.
You can claim Council Tax benefit if you have a liability to pay the council tax. This means your name is shown on the council tax bill and any benefit awarded will be deducted from it.
How do I claim?
You must complete a claim form and return it to the benefit office as soon as possible as we can normally only pay benefit from the Monday following receipt of your form.
What if I need help claiming?
If you require help with completing the claim form please contact our office on 023 8083 2031 where we may be able to help you either over the phone or arrange a home visit from one of our staff.
When should I claim?
You should send in your claim form as soon as possible as benefit will normally be paid from the Monday after we receive your form.
What proofs do I need to send?
There are various types of documents you need to send in with your application for benefit.
What changes do I have to tell you about?
Your benefit is worked out on your circumstances so it is important that you tell us as soon as there are any changes.
What if I disagree with the decision?
If you are not happy with a decision we have made about your benefit you have 1 month from the date of our letter telling you the decision to either:
Local Housing Allowance
Local Housing Allowance is a new way of working out Housing Benefit entitlement for private sector claimants. This will take effect from 7 April 2008.
Guide For Landlords
Tenants who are on a low income and pay rent can claim Housing Benefit.
Other Advice Agencies
This page gives details of where to go to get advice.
Last updated: 18 June 2008
