North East Fife MP Sir Menzies Campbell is advising his constituents of new rules introduced this month, which mean that individuals will only be able to claim three months of backdated benefits, rather than the current entitlement of twelve months.
The Government has announced that the maximum period of backdating for pension credit, housing benefit and council tax benefit will be reduced from one year to three months as part of a simplification of the system. But Sir Menzies supports the view that has been expressed by the Citizens Advice Bureau and others that the new rules will risk increasing financial hardship, particularly for those with rent arrears who are unaware of their entitlement to housing benefit, and for those who have literacy problems, disabilities or language barriers.
Sir Menzies is urging anyone who thinks they might be eligible for any of these benefits to apply before the end of September to ensure they will receive the maximum amount of backdating.
He said:
“I am strongly opposed to this change, as I am concerned about the impact it will have on low income families and pensioners in North East Fife. The Government has insisted that they need to reduce the backdating periods for these benefits in order to pay for a new system for pensioners to claim all of their benefits through one application. While I support the simplification of the benefits system, it should not be paid for by penalising a group of particularly vulnerable claimants.â€
To apply for pension credit, constituents should call 0800 99 1234. Lines are open Monday to Friday between 8.00am – 8.00pm. To make enquiries about housing benefit and council tax benefit, constituents should contact their local Council office or visit the Council’s website.
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