When do they pay HB and how much on average is it

astar86

Hi, I was just curious to know when do councils normally pay HB to the claimant. I understand they pay in arrears but how long does that take?? I would also like to know how much on average is the HB :money:

carolt

It's £36.23.

Precisely.

They pay at half-past 3 on a Wednesday, but only if it's raining.

astar86

you silly billy :rotfl:

PasturesNew

HB is now called LHA. How much depends on:
Your age
Your living arrangements (e.g. couple, single, kids)
Your postcode
Your income
How many rooms they decide you should have (e.g. singles/couples 1 bedroom)

theartfullodger

Dunno if you've heard of "Google" but it's quite good at finding stuff...

Herewith...

https://lha-direct.voa.gov.uk/Secure/Default.aspx

It is paid 8 weeks in arrears if you are entitled to it

BitterAndTwisted

These days HB is only paid on behalf of Local Authority tenants (I think). Everyone else has to apply for LHA (Local Housing Allowance) which is normally paid direct to the tenant. The level of LHA is dependent on your circumstances: like how much, if anything, you earn and your deemed housing needs. Therefore if you are a single person living in a rented 3-bed house you may only get LHA for a one-bed. LHA rates are lower for those under 25.

Look at your Local Authority's website for what rates apply in your area.

Generally LHA is paid two weeks in arrears

theartfullodger

http://england.shelter.org.uk/get_advice/paying_for_a_home/housing_benefit_and_local_housing_allowance

Jowo_2

On average, the UK is expecting to pay £20 billion in housing benefit/LHA out to millions of households this year but the govt is hoping to make a saving of around 10% in the next year or so by introducing caps.

But on a more serious note, if a local council has not processe a LHA claim, and the claimant has submitted all the relevant information, a claimant can apply for an interim claim after two weeks.