Vauxhall's factory at Ellesmere Port is to be one of four plants in Europe that will build the new Astra.
What is a non-dependant?
A non-dependant is a person aged 18 or over who lives in your home, or is using your home as their main home on a noncommercial basis. For example, an adult son, daughter, relative or friend can be a non-dependant.
A non-dependant does not have to be a family member. Boarders, sub-tenants and joint tenants are not non-dependants.
Will my benefit be affected if I have a non-dependant living with me?
It might be.
The Government expects non-dependants to pay a share of your housing costs and your Council Tax, and lays down set amounts which we must take off your Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit in some cases. If you have a non-dependant living in your home, we may have to reduce your benefit. This is called a non-dependant deduction.
There are some cases where no deductions are taken from your benefit. See the section called 'Are there any cases where no nondependant deduction is made?'
Do I have to make my non-dependant pay a share?
It's up to you.
But, whatever you do, the law says we have to take a fixed amount off your benefit each week.
The non-dependant deduction is based on their gross weekly income - that is, their pay before deductions like tax and National Insurance, and any other income they have, including any benefits they get.
Even if they pay you nothing, we usually have to make the deduction unless certain rules apply. See the section called 'Are there any cases where no non-dependant deduction is made?'
Does the money non-dependants pay for their keep count as income for the person claiming Benefit?
No, this money is not treated as your income. Instead, a fixed deduction is made from your Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit, based on the non-dependant's gross weekly income.
What should I do if I have a non-dependant living with me?
You should let us know if somebody has moved into your home because it may affect your benefit. And, for the same reason, you should also let us know if someone moves out.
If you have a non-dependant who changes jobs, or has an increase or decrease in their earnings or income, you should also let us know because it may reduce or increase the deduction we make.
If your non-dependant receives any state benefits, we might have to take these into account so please let us know. If there are any changes at all in your non-dependants' circumstances, you should let us know straightaway. If you're not sure, just check with us. Please visit the 'Change of Circumstances section for more information.
Do I need to provide proof of my non-dependant's income?
Yes, you usually have to provide proof of your non-dependant's income. We need to see proof of their income so that we can deduct the correct amount. If we do not get that information, we will have to take the highest amount off your benefit, which will increase the amount of rent or Council Tax (or both) you have to pay.
Here are some examples of proof of income that non-dependants can supply.
If you don't know what proof to give us, just ask. We will write and let you know how their income affects your benefit.
Are there any cases where no deduction for nondependants is made?
Yes there are.
We will not make a charge if:
You can always check with us if you're not sure.
What can I do if I don't agree with your decision?
If you don't agree with our decision, you can ask us to look at it again. Our letters tell you what your rights are. Please see What to do if you disagree with a Housing Benefit or Council Tax Benefit decision' for more detailed information.
Where can I get help?
If you need to find out whether you are eligible for any of these benefits or if you need help completing benefit forms, please get in touch with our Independent Benefit Advisor, Karen Linford.
Phone Karen on 0151 356 6607 or email karen.linford@epnbc.gov.uk
Home visits can be arranged if required.
Advice is also available from Ellesmere Port and Neston's Citizens Advice Bureau.
