Housing Benefit for private tenants

Housing Benefit and Local Housing Allowance

You may be eligible for Housing Benefit if you rent your home from a private landlord and have a low income.

What is Local Housing Allowance?

Local Housing Allowance (LHA) is used to work out the maximum Housing Benefit you can get. The amount depends on where you live and how many bedrooms you need.

Your actual benefit will depends on your income and household circumstances

If you claimed Housing Benefit before 7 April 2008 and have not moved or had a break in your claim, LHA does not apply to you

Weekly rates for Highlands and Islands (from 1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025)

The weekly rates depend on the kind of accommodation you are living in:

  • shared accommodation: £87.45
  • 1 bedroom: £109.32
  • 2 bedrooms: £136.93
  • 3 bedrooms: £159.95
  • 4 bedrooms: £195.62

Rates may vary slightly depending on your postcode.

Find your rate

To check your exact rate or bedroom entitlement:

Page last modified: 15 August 2025