How does it affect you if you are in hospital

Up to 52 Weeks

If you are in hospital for a period of less than 52 weeks and providing you are intending to return home, then you will NOT lose any Housing or Council Tax Benefit. But you must inform the benefits office that you have been admitted.

HOWEVER

IF YOU ARE IN HOSPITAL FOR A PERIOD EXCEEDING 52 WEEKS and you are a single person, you will have your benefit "downrated" after the 52 week. This means that if you are in receipt of a state pension and/or on Income Support (Pension Credit from October 2003) it will be reduced to a personal allowance known as hospital pocket money. Your Housing and Council Tax Benefit is also reduced because the allowance used to calculate the amount you receive is lower. These reductions are set by Central Government.

OR IF YOU ARE A COUPLE

If either you or your partner is in hospital for more than 52 weeks then "downrating" will take place and your Housing or Council Tax Benefit will also reduce.

TO HELP MEET THE SHORTFALL IN RENT

Once your Benefit has been "downrated", you may ask for a Discretionary Housing Payment to be made if you are still in receipt of Housing or Council Tax Benefit and you can demonstrate hardship due to the "downrating" rules. You should apply in writing to the Benefits Manager, a decision will be made within 14 days.

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