I suspect I may be clutching at straws here, but nothing ventured etc. Man, suffers from bipolar, was on IS as incapable of work for many years, failed PCA, appealed, did not return TAS1, appeal struck out, reduced rate IS stopped. Have requested appeal be reinstated, awaiting decision, advised client to claim JSA in the meantime. In Oct 2004 partner moved in, they have since had 2 children. He has never told DWP, always continued with IS as single claimant. Because of his bipolar he feared the children would be removed. Partner claimed CB but not CTC or IS herself. For a 10 month period she worked earning £90/wk approx.
Since Oct 2004 they would almost certainly have received more IS overall as a couple than he has as a sigle claimant, despite her short time in work. However there would have been an overpayment for the period she was working. Can this be offset against the benefit he underclaimed at other times? I suspect not if changes of circs cannot be reported retrospectively but I would appreciate any guidance.
CTC can of course be backdated 3 months max.
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