RESIDENTS going abroad for more than four weeks are being warned they will no longer be able to claim housing benefit because of new national rules coming into force later this month.
Previously those claiming housing benefit were fine to do so until they spent a ‘temporary absence’ of 13 weeks out of the country.
But that has been shortened to four weeks under the new legislation coming in on July 28.
Those going away for more than four weeks should tell the district council beforehand to avoid claiming benefits they are not entitled to and to prevent themselves committing benefit fraud.
In certain circumstances the four weeks can be extended, but rulings on that need to be decided on a case by case basis and it is important for people to discuss their situation before they go to prevent their claim being unnecessarily stopped.
Amanda Singleton, the district council’s head of customer access and financial support, said she wanted to ensure people knew about the national law change.
“If you’re going to be out of the country for more than four weeks, just be sure to talk to us before you go.
“That way you will avoid any problems with Housing Benefit payments further down the line.”
To notify the council about a four-week or longer absence from the UK, visit www.bromsgrove.gov.uk/benefits, call 01527 881213 or go to the Parkside Hub.
The rules also apply to Pension Credit but that is not administered by the district council. Visit www.gov.uk for more on that.
