Back in the news update section (5 December 2005) we were told that claimants for PC could at the same time claim HB/CTB. In other words one phone call to fit all. I have usually ignored this procedure because Hackney BC usually sends a full blown application form later and so the exercise seems a waste of time.

So when I apply for clients for PC by phone I always ask, where they are eligible, for the PC to be backdated. I then complete the main HB/CTB application and ask for the these benefits also to be backdated.There is a special box virtually hidden at the backend of these application forms where this requested.Under the heading of 'you don't get what you want unless you ask' this box has to be completed.
Result - one very happy client.

Being in a hurry 3 weeks ago I used the new system to try it out. Cl got shortened form HB1/CTB1 and guess what:
there is no box allowing client to ask for backdating of the 2 benefits. Backdating can be often worth £8000 plus PC.

At best I call this misleading - at worst maladministration under the heading of incompetence. Will LASA or Rightsnet campaign for greater transparency or has someone again got to go to the Parliamentary Ombudsman to get DWP to change their procedures??

The LA should determine the claim from when the pensioner first became entitled during the 12 months prior to date of claim without any request for backdating.

see http://www.dwp.gov.uk/hbctb/circulars/2004/a29-2004.pdf for details

Many thanks.

It would be interesting to know how often there have been mishaps re non backdating.

I have had no problems at all with the local councils once they were aware of the new rules. They amended their procedures to request details of income for the previous year where there was no Pension Credit entitlement.