KEY FACTS:

• The date of claim dictates when the HB entitlement starts - usually from the Monday after the claim is made. HB Reg 76 para 1.
  
  
• But there are special rules for claimants on a 'passport benefit' (click here); people moving home, and couples.
  
  
• The tenant should make the claim as soon as possible - any delay may mean they miss out on some HB.
  
  
• If the tenant has delayed making their claim they may be able to get it backdated.
  
  
• Or there can be alternatives to backdating - for example if they had made an intention to claim but were never given the opportunity to make a complete claim (more here.)