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To record in writing the council’s
intention to continue operating a Risk Based Verification (RBV)
Policy for the purposes of determining entitlement to Housing
Benefit/Council Tax Reduction in respect of new claims and ongoing
entitlement for existing awards.

The council has operated an RBV policy since April 2012.
Authorities that operate an RBV policy are required to have it
approved by the section 151 officer. Continued use of Credit
Reference Agency checking will be made for new claims for Housing
Benefits and where appropriate Council Tax Reduction to ensure the
efficient use of staff resources and administration.

Changes made to the policy extend non-dependents Earnings can be
verified by DWP searchlight system for all new HB claim and
reviewing claims with an associated non-dependent.