Buying shares whilst on Housing Benefit?

willing2learn_3

Hi, i'd be interested if anyone would know what the effect would be of investing in the stockmarket if one is in receipt of housing benefit?

I know that if there were large gains then of course housing benefit would stop...and rightly so. I'm just wondering if anyone knows what the rules are on this. I'm thinking of buying some shares in a company that my father has also invested in. The money i would use is not very much at all and housing benefit know about this money. Obviously i have to be sensible and i may not even go ahead.....but i'd be grateful if anyone knows what the rules are on this.

thanks

[Deleted User]

FOR means tested benefits the value of shares are treated as cash

minimadtrix

Also, any dividend paid out is classed as income

dmg24

I would be very careful at investing in shares at the moment. It now looks like a recession is inevitable, and most businesses will suffer as a result of this.

bexmark_2

Shares are treated as capital, taking current market value minus 10%, (to reflect trading costs, etc).
As you would be using declared capital, then there should be no change to your benefit. Just tell the local authority about the changes to keep your records up to date.
It is then up to you to let them know if the value appreciates greatly. Most authorities should review your claim periodically and capital would then be reassessed.