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Important information about Swine Flu

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Rates changes to help pensioners

Pensioners with savings will be able to get more help under the low income rate relief scheme. It is also planned to introduce a rates deferment scheme for owner occupiers from April 2010.

Increased limits

From 2 November 2009, capital worth £10,000 (including savings) will be ignored in the calculation of both housing benefit and rate relief for pensioners. This is an increase from the current £6,000, and will affect the amount of support provided and not entitlement.

The change will be in addition to the £50,000 increased limit which was introduced last year and allows pensioners to hold up to £50,000 of savings, and other capital, and still receive help with their rates.

Rate relief

The Rate Relief Scheme can help you if you are:

  • a pensioner and you have savings of less than £50,000
  • getting Housing Benefit for only part of your rate bill
  • just outside the income limit for receiving Housing Benefit

Application forms for housing benefit or rate relief can be obtained by contacting Land & Property Services as follows:

  • helpline: 101: minicom: 18001101 (the alternative number for those calling from outside Northern Ireland or who are unable to access the 101 service is 02891 513101)
  • freephone: 0800 587 7477
  • email: ·housingbenefit.rating@lpsni.gov.uk

If a person does not own their own home they should contact the Housing Executive on 0844 892 0902