Can LHA be paid to the landlord?

karend1980

Is there a way it can be paid to the landlord, I'm currently in debt and dont want the LHA paid into my bank. Is there a way I can get it paid to the landlord?

tbs624

LHA is usually paid direct to the T, except in specific circumstances: one of these is where the T finds it difficult to manage their finances and/or has accrued debts. You would need to complete a form and provide evidence of why you want to have the rent paid direct.

The LL may not want to have it paid direct though, because for LLs there is the risk that in the case of any form of benefit fraud on the T's part the LHA would be clawed back from the LL rather than the T . ( Not meant as a suggestion that your own claim would be a fraudulent one, just an explanation of why some LLs aren't thrilled about being paid direct)

The_Eponymous_M

Yes. Just ask the benefit department to do so for you.

Simples.

clutton_2

""
Yes. Just ask the benefit department to do so for you.

Simples."

not at all simples.... since April 2008 LHA goes to tenants - unless they can prove they are "vulnerable" - ie cannot manage their money, are addicts, or mentally ill.. Each council seems to do things differently - you will need to check out what is the criteria used by your council....

in your circumstances i would open a new basic bank account with a different bank, explainig it is just for the LHA - in this way it is not swallowed up by your debts....

Morglin

karend1980 wrote: »

Is there a way it can be paid to the landlord, I'm currently in debt and dont want the LHA paid into my bank. Is there a way I can get it paid to the landlord?

You should be able to do this, if you ask the benefit department and explain your difficulties:

http://www.dwp.gov.uk/docs/lha-national-landlord-qa.pdf

Lin

karend1980

thanks everyone for your advice.