Overpayments

I have to repay overpaid benefit?

If you are overpaid benefit you will normally be expected to pay it back.

We will notify you:

• What your correct benefit is.
• Why you were overpaid.
• How much the overpayment is.
• How you can pay it back.

Can the overpayment be reduced?

Yes in certain cases. We will ask you to provide proof of your actual circumstances together with your income and capital over the overpayment period so that we can calculate your correct entitlement.

Will I have to pay the money back all at once?

• No, if you are still receiving Housing Benefit, any overpayment can be recovered from your ongoing entitlement. This is a weekly amount set by the government.
• If you no longer qualify for Housing Benefit we will send you an invoice with instalment details.
• If you have been overpaid Council Tax Benefit we will debit the amount directly to your Council Tax account. You will receive a bill with details of your revised instalments.

Can I make an offer to pay the overpayment by instalments?

Yes.  If you wish to pay by instalments then ring Customer Services on (01709) 336006 or follow the following link:

 Housing Benefit Overpayment - Offer of Payment eForm

What if the overpayment wasn't my fault?

If you think the overpayment was not your fault, you may still be required to repay it if the Council thinks it is reasonable to you to know you were being overpaid.

What if I can't pay the money back at the recovery rate set by the Council?

You will need to contact the Overpayments Team who will send you a financial assessment form to complete so they can decide how much you can reasonably afford.

Can I appeal against an overpayment?

Yes, as long as you write in within 1 calendar month of the date you were notified about the overpayment giving the reasons why you disagree.

 What to do if I think my benefit is wrong - Revisions and Appeals (772kb)

 Housing Benefit Overpayments - Information for Landlords (853Kb)