Housing benefit and travelling abroad for 5 months

[nehagharge]

Hi All,

I am currently claiming housing benefit and child benefit. I am planning to travel abroad with my child for 5 months due to personal circumstances.

Do I have to inform the council about my travel plans as my husband would still be residing in the property while I am away.

Does travelling abroad for long duration would effect my future applications for housing benefit, as we might have to relocate next year due to the changes in my partner's job.

Thanks,
Neha

[Amber]

If you're the one claiming child benefit, you'll need to inform the HMRC, you may be able to continue to receive child benefit for temporary absences (12 weeks?). You'll also need to inform the council regarding housing benefit. They may say you're not habitually resident when you return, but it depends on the length of absence etc....