What is an Applicable Amount?
The amount of Housing or Council Tax Benefit you are entitled to is based on your income compared to Government guidelines on what is the minimum required for the basic living needs of a typical claimant and their family in your circumstances. These basic guidelines are referred to as an applicable amount and are reviewed by the Government each April.
Your total net weekly income is compared to the applicable amount for someone in your circumstances, which then determines how much Housing and/or Council Tax Benefit you are entitled to.
A breakdown of your applicable amount is shown on your benefit notification.
Last updated: 7 November 2006
