|
We've introduced a new way of working out Housing
Benefit for tenants who rent a property from a private landlord.
From 7 April 2008 the new system applies to all new
claims or changes of
address.
The amount of Local Housing Allowance (LHA) you will receive is
based on the area you live in and how many people live in your
home.
If you live in a property where the rent is lower
than the amount of Local Housing Allowance (LHA) you are entitled
to you will receive a payment that covers the full rent
plus the difference up to a maximum of £15 per
week. You are free to spend the additional money on other
items.
If you live in a property where the rent is
higher than the amount of Local Housing Allowance
(LHA) you are entitled to you will receive only the LHA payment and
must contribute the difference.
Unlike the old scheme Local Housing Allowance (LHA) payments
will usually be made directly to you rather than your landlord.
However, payments can be made directly to the landlord for tenants
who have difficulties looking after money - for more information
read our
Safeguard Policy.
The Local Housing Allowance (LHA) scheme is not available for
these groups of people:
- Housing
Association tenants
- Supported Housing
tenants
- Crown tenants
- Private tenants who started renting their current property
before 15 January 1989
- Tenants living in caravans, houseboats or hostels
Anyone who currently rents from a private landlord will not be
entitled to Local Housing Allowance (LHA) until you make a brand
new claim
for Housing Benefit or change your address to another privately
rented property.
The Local Housing Allowance payments will be reviewed annually
to take into account rent increases.
For more detailed information about Local Housing Allowance
(LHA) download our
frequently asked questions (FAQs), or visit the
Department for
Work and Pensions and
The Rent Service
websites.
For more information about the introduction of Local Housing
Allowance in North Somerset please contact our
Customer Services team. |