How do I apply for benefit?
Your application should be in writing and delivered or posted to:
Socialkontoret, Box 356, 581 03 Linköping.
The visiting address is Barnhemsgatan 2.
Rights and responsibilities
It is your responsibility to reduce the need for benefits where possible, for example by reducing abnormally high living costs.
If you are not in paid employment you must be registered at the employment agency and actively seeking work.
An application for benefit is always followed by a decision, which you will receive in writing.
Under the Swedish Social Welfare Act your right to self-determination and personal integrity must be respected. All information that is handled is confidential. The person dealing with your case is bound by the rules of professional secrecy.
The social welfare committee has the right to check that the information you give your handling officer in your original application for benefit is correct. No other contacts will be taken without your permission.
All information gathered is recorded in a journal. You have the right to see the notes and any other documents that have been filed by the social security office. If you think that any piece of information filed is incorrect your comment will be noted.
You must notify your handling officer if your income changes during the period for which you are receiving benefit. If you provide incorrect information, resulting in too high an amount being paid, you may be reported to the police.
Advice on household economy
The social security office can offer advice on household economy to anyone who has debt problems and trouble making ends meet.
Appealing a decision to refuse benefit
You can appeal against a decision concerning benefit in the Östergötland county administrative court. The appeal must be lodged with the social security office within three weeks of the decision being received. You can ask the social security office to help you with your appeal.
An appeal must make clear which decision is being referred to, how you think it should be changed and why you are requesting the change.
Your part in the process
An application for benefit can only be assessed if the correct information about the household's financial situation is provided. The following documents are necessary:
- an income statement for the previous three months
- a tenancy agreement / notification of rent
- if you are a sub-tenant, the approval of the landlord
- a receipt proving payment of rent
- proof that you have contacted the employment agency
- a housing / tenant-ownership loan and contract of purchase
- a household electricity bill / receipt
- a home insurance statement
- business documents / accounting records (result and balance sheet)