Citizen's Advice Bureau - Your Questions Answered

I am going on my first trip abroad soon so I need to apply for a passport. A friend told me I would have to go for an interview. Is this true?

From 1 June 2007 first-time adult passport applicants can no longer use the 'fast track one-week' service, and may be called to a face-to-face interview as part of the application process. This system has been brought in to combat identity fraud and interviews are being gradually phased in. Applications are made by post or online, and information you provide (e.g. national insurance no. / previous addresses) is checked against government and private sector databases. You may then be called to an interview where you will be asked basic information about yourself. The interviews will last up to 30 mins and should take place at an office no more than 1 hours travel away. It is recommended that you allow 6 weeks for the process. See www.passport.gov.uk for more information.

I have recently retired and am worried about how I am going to be able to afford my council tax. Is there anything I can do?

We would need more details of your current financial circumstances, but the general rule is that if you are on a low income and have less than £16,000 in savings, you could be entitled to Council Tax Benefit (CTB). The amount you get depends on your income. Before claiming CTB, check if you are eligible for any discounts to your bill e.g. if you live alone you qualify for a 25% reduction. You need to contact South Lakeland District Council to get a CTB claim form. Ask for the claim to be dated from the day you ask for the form. If you are over 60 and think you would have qualified for CTB, before you made your claim, you may get payment backdated for up to a year.

For more information see www.adviceguide.org.uk or contact Windermere CAB (above the library) 015394 46464