In the UK, millions of pounds in various benefits go unclaimed each year. In North West Leicestershire we are committed to making sure that as many people as possible get all the benefits they are entitled to by providing a free and confidential benefit check that is completed in the privacy of your own home. More about the take-up campaign
Help with your rent and council tax
What benefits are available?
If you are on a low income, rent and council tax are two costs that can be difficult to manage. You may be able to get Housing Benefit or Local Housing Allowance and Council Tax benefit to help cover these costs. Help with your rent and council tax.
Frequently asked questions
What is available, who can claim, how needs are assessed and how benefit is calculated and paid. Frequently asked questions.
Do I qualify?
Find out if you may be eligible.
Benefits calculator
Check if you may qualify for Housing Benefit, Local Housing Allowance and Council Tax Benefit by using our on-line calculator. On -line benefits calculator.
Download a claim form
Print out a claim form for completion.
You can download and print out a claim form to be completed and returned to the council. This form covers Housing Benefit, Local Housing Allowance and Council Tax benefit. More about how to download a claim form.
Information for landlords
About to rent out a property?
If you have a property for let, the following guide will help to answer questions that you may have about Local Housing Allowance and Housing Benefit. Advice for landlords.
What to do if you think a decision is wrong
Appeals and reconsiderations
When you apply for Housing or Council Tax benefit, we will give you a decision in writing about your claim. If you disagree with it, you can ask us to look at it again. More about looking at a decision again.
Since October, there have been several changes in benefit legislation, the most important being that child maintenance payments are no longer counted as income. More about the October changes.
What do I need to tell the council?
Changes in circumstances
While you are getting Housing Benefit, Local Housing Allowance and/or Council Tax Benefit, you must report in writing any changes in circumstances which may alter your benefit. What do I need to tell you?
Discretionary Housing Payments
Extra help if you are not getting full benefit
If you are receiving Housing Benefit, Local Housing Allowance and/or Council Tax Benefit, you may be able to get extra help towards your housing costs if you are not already getting full benefit. More about discretionary housing payments.
