Explanatory note

These Regulations amend the Income Support (General) Regulations 1987, the Jobseeker’s Allowance Regulations 1996, the Housing Benefit Regulations 2006 and the Council Tax Benefit Regulations 2006 so as to disregard in the calculation of income the increase in child benefit which takes effect on 5th January 2009. The Regulations cease to have effect at the beginning of April 2009, by which time it is anticipated that personal allowances will be increased by the annual up-rating order.

In the case of income support and jobseeker’s allowance, the Regulations apply only to claimants who do not receive child tax credits. (For those who do, child benefit is already fully disregarded.)

A full impact assessment has not been produced for this instrument as it has no impact on the private or voluntary sectors.