Housing benefit question

kregrs · 1st June 2007, 02:26

After our HB was suspended, then reinstated, we've found out we're going to be overpaid. Not by a small amount, but double the usual amount! Can they take this back in 1 go or does it get taken gradually?

kregrs · 1st June 2007, 02:50

Forgot to add, the HB comes straight to us as I paid my rent for the whole year so I receive the HB as payment, and the amount overpaid is £465.

LittleMissSunshine · 1st June 2007, 09:03

I would say that if you know they are going to overpay, warn them and keep all overpaid money in special account so you cant touch it.
If they have overpaid and you still have the money, also put it separate.

Otherwise I would say that you should be able to come to a reasonable agreement, but I am no expert on this, so I would say either get someone elses reaction here, or just phone them up and ask

Joa · 1st June 2007, 10:15

The Local Authority will give you a choice; you can pay back in one lump sum, or you will have it deducted from your ongoing payments.
You can ask to have the ongoing payments reduced if you present a strong argument that the level of repayments is placing your family in a financial crisis.
The HB overpayment manual here: DWP - Resource centre - Information for local authorities - Publications - Guidance and manuals - HB/CTB Overpayments Guide
Also, search this forum or google for Discretionary Housing Payments.

Esio Trot · 1st June 2007, 23:26

Quote:

Originally Posted by kregrs

After our HB was suspended, then reinstated, we've found out we're going to be overpaid. Not by a small amount, but double the usual amount! Can they take this back in 1 go or does it get taken gradually?

HB departments are the one of the most inefficient and error prone of all government departments - save that of the Child Support Agency.

Is is quite likely that you can overturn this demand for repayment. Can I suggest that you scan and paste the letter (omitting identifying details) so that we can advise you better.

I have taken 12 to appeal in the last 3 years and in only1 didn't get it wiped out or significantly reduced.

moneyhelp · 17th June 2007, 20:14

It can be done.

I appealed, got the overpayments stopped and got a cheque of £70 back with an apology!

CAG Products - We think that these will help you to make your claim or Reclaim your Right These sales also help us to keep helping YOU and keeps this site free of third party adverts!

Small Claims Kit	Small Claims Court Guide New Edition	CallBurner - Skype CallRecorder Review	Last Will & Testament Kit	Fight a Motoring Ticket

Alternatively you could purchase a CAG email address here, or maybe you'd prefer our address labels here
UPDATE: Consumer Forums ConsumerWiki is now LIVE - click here: ConsumerWiki N.B. Please note - due to postage costs these products are only available in the U.K.