CT benefit query (entitlement)

[SarahConnor]

I hope somebody will be able to advice on this. I have been on council tax benefit for quite a while and also claim job-seeker allowance.

At the end of 2013 my JSA claim was closed and I am in a process of appealing this decision, but due to the fact that I nearly depleted whatever savings I have left I am about to borrow money from a friend to keep me going until I sort myself out (I know I can go through the JSA rapid-reclaim procedure, but for reasons I won't bother you with I don't want to do that). She was kind enough and agreed to do that on a monthly basis until my appeal goes through.

The amount I'd like to borrow isn't big (it is comparable to the JSA I was getting) though what I'd like to know is: should I let the council know about this (what happens if I don't?) and is this going to affect the CT benefit (if so, am I going to be asked to pay more towards my council tax benefit)?

Many thanks.

[enaid]

Re: CT benefit query (entitlement)

Hi and welcome,
As far as I know you should report any changes, I can't see how the amount of benefit will be any different if your income does not increase.

[SarahConnor]

Re: CT benefit query (entitlement)

Thanks enaid. If I am borrowing these money and the amount is comparable to what I used to get as a JSA (which won't affect my CT benefit entitlement) why do I need to report it? What happens if I don't?

[Inca]

Re: CT benefit query (entitlement)

It's always advisable to report any change in circumstances when claiming benefits.