Important Changes to Benefit Rules from October 2008

October saw a number of changes to Benefit rules in the following areas:

6th October 2008

Backdating Rules

Working Age Claimants

There is now a reduction in the period a claim may be backdated:  previously 52 weeks, now 6 months.

Pension Age Claimants

Likewise, the time limit for claiming Pension Credits and Benefits has been reduced:  from 52 weeks to 3 months.

Extended Payments

Claimants no longer need to complete a new application for In-work benefits after they have received an Extended Payment.  This should help streamline the process and transition into work.

27th October 2008

Child Maintenance

Child Maintenance income is now disregarded in full as income for Benefit; previously, only £15 per week was disregarded.

This means anyone who receives Child Maintenance is more likely to qualify for Benefit.  If they already receive this, their entitlement will increase automatically.

Employment and Support Allowance

Employment and Support Allowance replaced Incapacity Benefit for new claimants.