If your circumstances change
This section explains when and how to tell us if your circumstances change.
Changes in circumstance can change the amount of benefit you receive. You may receive more, you may receive less or you may receive the same.
Examples of changes you must tell us about are:
- if you or your partner start or stop getting income support or jobseekers allowance or any other state benefits
- if you or your partner start or stop work, or your or your partner’s wages or income goes up or down (for example, if you work overtime)
- if any other money you or your family has coming in goes up or down
- if anyone who lives with you moves out or somebody new comes to live with you
- if the Home Office refuse your application for asylum
- if you or your partner move or go into hospital or go abroad
- if your or your partner's savings go up or down
- if your child leaves school or child benefit ends.
These are only some examples of the changes you should tell us about, if you are not sure call us on 01737 276497.
When should I tell you?
It is important that you tell us as soon as you can. If the change means you will get more benefit you must notify us within one calendar month of the date of the change. If you do not you may lose money.
If the change means you will get less benefit it is important to tell us straight away to avoid being overpaid. Any overpaid benefit (see more information on overpayments) will need to be paid back in most cases.
How do I tell you?
You can tell us about changes by phone and email, as well as by post. You can also take details of the change to any of our Help Shops.
By phone
Please call (01737) 276497 to report a change in your circumstances. We will be able to take details of the change, and advise you if we need supporting information. In many cases we will be able to adjust your claim without you having to provide any further information or evidence.
By Email
You can email us with details of the change. Our email address is benefits.enquiries@reigate-banstead.gov.uk
If your Tax Credits change, you can call us and we will contact Her Majesty's Revenues & Customs directly to obtain details of the change, but we still need you to let us know when your Tax Credits change.
Last updated : 18/01/2010
