About your benefit claim - overpayments
I don't understand why I have been overpaid benefit
If you cannot understand why there has been an overpayment of benefit and would like it explaining you should telephone the Benefits Section on (01709) 336065.
Please note that the Benefits Section will not be able to make an arrangement for payment of the outstanding balance with you.
Do I have to pay back overpaid benefit?
If you are overpaid benefit you will normally be expected to pay it back. We will notify you of:
- What your correct benefit is;
- Why you were overpaid;
- How much the overpayment is
- How you can pay it back
Will I have to pay the money back all at once?
I am still receiving Housing Benefit from Rotherham Council
Any overpayment will usually be recovered from your ongoing entitlement at a weekly amount set by the Government.
If you can't pay the money back at the recovery rate set by the council you should contact telephone Account Management on (01709) 336071 or use the following link.
Housing Benefits overpayment - Deductions reduction request
I am no longer receiving Housing Benefit from Rotherham Council
We will send you an invoice informing you of the amount and the date due.
If you wish to make an alternative arrangement for payment you can ring Account Management on (01709) 336071 or use the following link:
Housing Benefit overpayment - Offer of payment form
You can also make an immediate payment on the following link:
Can the overpayment be reduced?
Yes, in certain cases this is possible. 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.
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 believes that you knew that you were being overpaid.
Can I appeal against an overpayment?
Yes, as long as you write to us at the address on the left within 1 calendar month of the date you were notified about the overpayment giving the reasons why you disagree.
Are you experiencing debt problems?
If you are having difficulties with debt the Council provides a free confidential debt counselling service to Rotherham residents. Please ring (01709) 822329.
Other advice agencies may be accessed through;
Last updated 06/01/2012