At the moment a claimant aged 60 or over who claims Pension Credit and/or HB can get these claims automatically backdated for 12 months. I am aware that from 4th Oct 2004 the period over which Pension Credit claims can be backdated has been extended from 3 to 12 months. Does anyone know if it will still be automatic?? IF yes, will this automatic element extend to HB claims from people aged 60 or over??

assume there'll be new regs before oct ... though not seen anything yet

will definitely happen though ... the dwp, in hb direct issue 30, said -

'As things stand, the only significant planned change between now and next April is the measure designed to mirror in HB/CTB the 12 month backdating which becomes a permanent feature of Pension Credit from October.'

stat instrument out today @ http://www.hmso.gov.uk/si/si2004/20042303.htm