From 7 April 2008 Housing Benefit for people who rent properties from private landlords is changing and will be calculated on the basis of the Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rules. The LHA rules are intended to make Housing Benefit simpler, fairer and to give claimants personal responsibility for paying their rent.
What is Local Housing Allowance?
LHA is a new way of working out Housing Benefit and aims to help people on a low income, who live in property rented from a private landlord, pay their rent. The LHA rate that applies to you depends on the area in which you live and the number of bedrooms your household needs. It represents the maximum amount of Housing Benefit you may be entitled to. The actual number of Housing Benefit payable depends on your income, capital and household circumstances.
Will LHA affect me?
LHA affects anyone who lives in private rented accommodation and makes a new claim for Housing Benefit after 7 April 2008.
Existing claimants will not be affected by LHA unless they change address or have a break in their claim after 7 April 2008.
Frequently Asked Questions