Council tax benefit - backdated claims

 

Your entitlement to Council Tax Benefit usually starts from the Monday after the council receives yur claim form. This is why it is important to apply as soon as possible.

If you think your Council Tax Benefit should start earlier than this, you can say so either on the claim form (at page 16) or by writing to the Revenues Unit at the address below:

This is called a request for backdating.

You should tell us:

  • The date you think your benefit should start
  • The reason why you did not claim earlier

You have to have good reason in order to get a backdated award.

Your Council Tax Benefit may be backdated up to a maximum of 52 weeks from the date we receive your request for backdating, but only if you have a good reason for not claiming earlier.

You will need to provide evidence of your circumstances, including your income, for the period of backdating.

You can write to us at:

West Lothian Council
Revenues Unit
St David House
South Bridge Street
Bathgate
EH48 1TT

or you can hand in your request at your local council office. The staff there can offer help and advice. You can also use the West Lothian Connected shop in the Almondvale Cenre in Livingston.

If you need further help staff at West Lothian Council''s Advice Shop are available to help with requests for backdating. They can also help with advice on all state benefits.

You can telephone them on 01506 776444.

Frequently Asked Questions

Click a question to see the answer.

How do I claim backdated council tax and housing benefit?

You must apply to us in writing if you want your housing or council tax benefit backdated. Depending on what you tell us we may ask for supporting evidence, such as a letter from your doctor if you are/were ill.

How far back can backdated housing benefit and council tax benefit be paid?

We can backdate a housing benefit and council tax benefit claim for up to 52 weeks for you, counting back from the date we receive a written request from you, which states why you haven't applied for benefit before.

What do I need to show in order to have my housing and council tax benefits backdated?

We can only backdate your housing and council tax benefit if you are able to show us a good reason why you did not claim the money at the time, so we need official supporting evidence. This may be a letter from your doctor if you have been ill and were unable to put in an application.

What is backdated housing benefit and council tax benefit?

Backdated housing and council tax benefit is benefit paid to you for a period in the past when you were unable to claim because of certain personal circumstances.

Contact details