Overpayments of council tax benefit

An overpayment is an amount of benefit, that has been paid, but for which there was a nil or reduced entitlement. 

An example would be if a person failed to tell the council that their income had increased, and a re-calculation of their entitlement meant that they had been paid too much benefit.

About this service

The council will notify the customer in writing of the decision in respect of overpaid benefit.  The customer has the right of appeal, to an independent appeals tribunal within one calendar month of the decision. the appeals service

What you must do

The customer must provide accurate information in respect of their benefit claim.

What we must do

The customer has the right of appeal to an independent appeals tribunal if they disagree with the decision on their benefit claim. If the customer disagrees with the decision of the independent appeals tribunal they may be able to have their case heard by the social security commissioners.

What happens next?

The council will assess the council tax benefit claim and notify the customer in writing of any change in benefit entitlement.

Some frequently asked questions

What is an overpayment of council tax benefit?

An overpayment is an amount of benefit, that has been paid, but for which there was a nil or reduced entitlement. 
an example would be if a person failed to tell the council that their income had increased, and a re-calculation of their entitlement meant that they had been paid too much benefit.