Need for the Follow-up Application
A housing benefit notice is typically valid for a period of twelve months. After this period ends, the entitlement automatically ceases. To continue receiving housing benefits, a follow-up application must be submitted. This application allows for the review of whether the entitlement to housing benefits still exists and, if so, to what extent it will be paid.
Deadline for the Follow-up Application
The follow-up application should be submitted at least two months before the current approval period expires. This gives the housing benefit office sufficient time to process the application and ensures there is no interruption in payments. If the application is submitted after the end of the approval period, the new housing benefit entitlement will only begin from the month of the application.
Required Documents
For the follow-up application for housing benefits, the following current documents must be submitted:
- Completed application form for the follow-up application
- Current income proof for the last three months
- Proof of rent payments (e.g., bank statements or receipts)
- A current vocational training certificate
Additionally, depending on individual circumstances, further documentation may be required, such as certificates of maintenance payments or changes in the household.
Review by the Housing Benefit Office
The housing benefit office reviews the follow-up application in the same manner as the initial application. Changes in personal or economic circumstances are taken into account to redefine the amount of housing benefit. If income has increased or rent costs have decreased, this may lead to a reduction in housing benefit.
Changes in the Follow-up Application
All changes that have occurred since the last approval period must be stated in the follow-up application. This includes:
- Changes in income
- Changes in household members
- Changes in rent costs
Incomplete or incorrect information may lead to the rejection of the application or the need to reclaim wrongly paid housing benefits.
Processing Time of the Follow-up Application
The processing time for a follow-up application typically takes four to six weeks. To avoid delays, the application should be submitted early and completely. If documents are missing, the housing benefit office will request them and set a deadline for submission.
Impact of Late Application Submission
If the follow-up application is submitted late, the new entitlement to housing benefits begins only from the month of application submission. No housing benefits will be paid for the months between the end of the last approval period and the submission of the application. Therefore, it is crucial to adhere to the deadline for the follow-up application.
Continuation of Benefits Notice
After reviewing the follow-up application, the applicant receives a continuation of benefits notice. This notice includes the new amount of housing benefits as well as the approval period. Generally, the new notice remains valid for twelve months, unless there are significant changes.