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Housing Benefit (Rate Rebate) Verification Process

As of the 14th February 2000 our Housing Benefit Central Unit has been operating a Housing Benefit verification process, in line with Government legislation. As part of this process all first time claimants must supply proof of identity for themselves and their partner (where appropriate).

If you or your partner are receiving Income Support, Jobseeker's Allowance or Pension Credit your identity will already have been verified by your local Social Security or Pension Credit office and you do not need to supply any further proof of identity.

If you or your partner are NOT receiving Income Support, Job Seekers Allowance or Pension Credit please note that evidence as detailed below is required and should be taken, in person, to your nearest  local Land and Property Services office.

Proof of your and your partner's identity

One piece of photographic ID or two pieces of non-photographic ID must be supplied from the following list: -

  • Northern Ireland driving licence (current and valid)
  • Current passport
  • Electoral ID Card
  • Translink Travel Pass (over 65s only)
  • Translink Half Fare Smart Pass
  • Birth certificate (full or short)
  • Divorce/annulment papers
  • Marriage certificate
  • Medical card
  • Gas, electricity or telephone bill (paid in person's name for last quarter)

Either the claimant or their partner should attend their nearest Land and Property Services office, bringing with them proof of their identity (as above) and proof of their partner's identity (where appropriate). The documents will be verified by our staff. For first time claimants, verification is currently being carried out in all Rating Services local offices.

If you/your partner are unable to attend any of the offices concerned, we may be able to make alternative arrangements in your area, or arrange a visit to your home. Please phone Housing Benefit Central Unit on Freephone 0800 5877 477 for further information.

Your application will be refused if it is not complete and all documentation included.

Please note that Housing Benefit Regulations put a responsibility on the customer to advise us of any change of circumstances, which may affect benefit entitlement within one month of the change occuring. Failure to do so may result in a loss of benefit.