Frequently Asked Questions

Question:

Will the housing benefit rules be able to pay all my rent?

Answer:

When we look at how much rent is eligible for help for calculating housing benefit, there are a number of complex rules. However, be aware that:

• If you live in a housing association property we can normally use the full rent charge in our calculation.
• Housing benefit cannot pay for services such as fuel, meals, water or personal care.
• If you live in privately rented accommodation and claimed after April 2008, your claim will be assessed on a rent which has been independently assessed by a Rent Officer, called the Local Housing Allowance. You will find the current figures and lots more information about these figures on the website but, in general terms, they are based upon average rents within the area for suitably sized accommodation for the make-up of your family.