From April 2011 the Government made several changes to Housing Benefit.
Changes to Local Housing Allowance Rates
Local Housing Allowance rates are the maximum amount that can be paid in Housing Benefit. These rates apply to most tenants who rent their home from a private landlord. They do not apply to housing association tenants and certain other tenancies.
If you rent your home from a private landlord and made your claim after April 2008, it is likely that you are receiving Local Housing Allowance and these changes will apply to you.
From April 2011:
- All Local Housing Allowance rates that we receive from the Valuation Office have been reduced
- The 5 bedroom rate of Local Housing Allowance is no longer paid and is limited to a four bedroom rate
The previous Local Housing Allowance Rates and the approximate new rates are set out below:
| Shared Accommodation | 1 Bed | 2 Bed | 3 Bed | 4 Bed | 5 Bed | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre April 2011 Rates | £69.50 | £100.00 | £130.00 | £155.77 | £198.08 | £262.50 |
| Estimated New Rates | £64.25 | £92.31 | £121.15 | £146.54 | £183.46 | £183.46 |
| Difference | £5.25 | £7.69 | £8.85 | £9.23 | £14.62 | £79.04 |
Protection for Existing Customers
If you are already claiming benefit, the lower rate may not apply to you until at least January 2012.You will receive 9 months protection on the higher rate after the anniversary date of your claim.
For example:if you claimed benefit in April 2008, your anniversary date will normally be April 2011, your protection would last for 9 months from that date: from April 2011 to December 2011.
If you have had a change in household or moved since you made your claim your anniversary date may be different.
If you move address after April 2011 this protection will be lost and the change will apply immediately. You may also lose the protection if there is a change in your household that affects the Local Housing Allowance rate.
An additional Room for Carers
From April 2011 an extra room allowance is made for an extra bedroom where a disabled customer or their partner needs overnight care. The care must be provided by someone who does not normally live in the property and an extra room must be available for the carer. If you think this applies to you then please let us know.
For more information on any of the changes above ring 01803 207201 or email us on housing.benefits@torbay.gov.uk.
Related Documents
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Changes affecting Housing Benefit
Advice for tenants who rent from a private landlord.
Last updated: 07/12/2011, 2:58pm (88 KB)
Contact
Benefits Service Enquiries- Tel: 01803 207201
- Fax: 01803 292866
