If you think we're wrong
When we have dealt with your claim for benefit we will send you a decision letter. The letter shows the information we have used to work out your benefit and you should check it carefully.
Statement of reasons
You have the right to ask for a written statement of reason about your Housing Benefit decision. This will explain in detail the reasons for our decision.
If you want a written statement of reasons you must ask us for one within one month of the date of the Housing Benefit decision letter.
If you think the decision about your Housing Benefit or Council Tax Support is wrong
If you think the decision about your Housing Benefit is wrong please write to us and explain why. We must receive your letter within one calendar month of the date of the decision letter.
A dispute can be made on your behalf but it must be made in writing and signed by you. You should say clearly in your letter if you wish to appeal against a decision you are disputing.
If we agree that the original decision is wrong and the new decision is to your advantage we will send you a new decision and your appeal will stop. If you do not agree with the new decision you can appeal against it.
If we do not change our decision and you have made it clear that you wish to appeal we will send your appeal to the HM Courts and Tribunal Service.
The HM Courts and Tribunal Service will arrange for an independent tribunal to hear your case. If you have not stated that you wish to appeal and we do not change our decision you will be given a further calendar month in which to make an appeal if you still think our decision is wrong.
Council Tax Support
If you think the decision about your Council Tax Support is wrong you should write to us and explain why.
We will look at your Council Tax Support award again and write to you with our decision.
If we do not respond to your appeal within two months, or if you are still not happy with our decision, you can appeal directly to the Valuation Tribunal Service.