The application deadline for housing benefit, healthcare benefit and the child-related budget for 2025 has been extended by four months. The application deadline for these allowances now runs until 31 December 2026. Previously, it was possible to apply for these allowances up to and including 1 September of the following year. People now have a full year after the end of a calendar year to check whether they are entitled to allowances and to apply for them. This extension also makes it easier to submit an application based on the final 2025 income tax assessment. Many people receive this assessment in the summer. An exception applies to business owners who have been granted a deferral for filing their tax return. They may apply for allowances up to the date on which their deferral expires.
Childcare allowance
Different application deadlines apply to the childcare allowance. Applications for this allowance can be made with effect from up to three months previously.