How do I make a claim?

You can make a claim by filling in one of our application forms which you can request by telephone or by visiting a one stop shop. If you need help filling in the form you can visit a One Stop Shop (see "Contacting Us") and speak to a customer service advisor.

Before you send the form to us make sure you have read it carefully and answered all the questions fully, even those that you think do not apply to you.

Check you have signed all the pages you need to and you have included all the evidence we ask for.

Once you have filled it in send it back to us as soon as possible. If you delay sending us your form you may lose benefit.

If you claim Jobseekers Allowance, Income Support or Employment and Support Allowance you can make your claim through the Jobcentre plus. If you claim Pension Credit, you can make your claim through the Pension Service. You will need to tell them that you want to claim housing and/or council tax benefit.