Topical Tips from the Citizens Advice Bureau

We hope the following information will be of value to Bookham residents and their families.

Changes to State Pension Rules

6th April 2010 marked the beginning of some important changes to the State Pension rules. Significantly, 30 years of National Insurance contributions are now sufficient to entitle anyone to a full State Pension. Civil partners also enjoy the same rights as spouses to use their partner’s contribution record to boost their own pension. At the same time, the women’s retirement age is gradually being increased to 65.  These changes bring in their wake some detailed and complicated issues relating to Pension Credit, Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit. Why not visit your local CAB and find out whether you might benefit.

Extra Help with Rent Families

New rules for Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit, which importantly no longer include Child Benefit in income calculations, could be worth up to £21.58 for families in rented accommodation. This is much needed help for families who have been severely affected by the recession. CAB are urging families in rented accommodation to contact them for a quick appraisal of their circumstances.

Can you help?

Mole Valley CAB is seeking a new Chair to fill the void left after Barbara Kelly stepped down last November. The Trustees would be pleased to have recommendations for a potential successor. In the first instance, please contact Anne Haigh, the Bureau Manager, on 01306 876806 or bureau@dorkingcab.cabnet.org.uk
Both Leatherhead and Dorking Bureau are open Mondays to Fridays. Everyone is welcome to drop in between 10.0am and 1.0pm, and appointments are held in the afternoons and some evenings. Or, telephone the advice lines during the same hours on 01372 375522 and 01306 876805.

CAB Georgian House, Swan Mews, Leatherhead KT22 8AE (375522)