Verification
Verifying your documents
To cut out fraud and errors, and to make sure that we give you the right amount of benefit, East Devon District Council works within what is called a "Verification Framework".
The framework sets out the different types of evidence that you must give us when you make an application for benefit. It means that we have to see actual, or original, documents. We cannot accept photocopies.
We will ask you to provide evidence of your identity and evidence of your National Insurance Number (NINO).
You can take your original documents to:
- the Council Offices, Knowle, Sidmouth; or
- the Town Hall, Exmouth
If you bring them to our offices, we will take copies (free of charge) and sign them to say that an authorised officer of the Council has seen the original documents.
You can also post them to us at:
Housing Benefits
Council Offices
Knowle
Sidmouth
EX10 8HL
Again, we will make a copy to keep on our files and then return the original documents to you as quickly as possible (normally on the day we receive them). If you send us photocopies by mistake, we will have to write to you and ask you to either send or bring in the original documents.
Please use recorded or special delivery if you are sending benefit order books in the post.
If you can't fill out the form and can't come into the offices, a visiting officer may be able to see you in your home. Please contact our Customer Services Helpline on 01395 517446 for further details.
