quickie about LHA rules

nannytone_2

a couple aged 19 and 20.
would they qualify for a shard rate or would they get 1 bed rate?

luminated

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

According to this calculator as a couple they qualify for one bedroom.

nannytone_2

thank you!
just got a bit confused as they are both under 25.

Marisco

Just out of curiosity, does this new "bed rate" only apply to new applicants, or will it effect those already "in the system"? What I mean is, if you already have a one or two bed flat, and have been there for quite a while, will the HB go down to a "room rate" IYSWIM? If so, it seems very unfair on those who have a flat already, as it means they'll have to make the shortfall up themselves or move!!! This seems very harsh, especially if they have been there for years!!! Or have I got it all wrong?:o

Jowo_2

nannytone wrote: »

thank you!
just got a bit confused as they are both under 25.

Couples get a 1 bedroom rate regardless of age.

intranicity

Marisco wrote: »

Just out of curiosity, does this new "bed rate" only apply to new applicants, or will it effect those already "in the system"? What I mean is, if you already have a one or two bed flat, and have been there for quite a while, will the HB go down to a "room rate" IYSWIM? If so, it seems very unfair on those who have a flat already, as it means they'll have to make the shortfall up themselves or move!!! This seems very harsh, especially if they have been there for years!!! Or have I got it all wrong?:o

To the best of my knowledge, you only ever have got what you were entitled to.

So if you are entitled to a 1 bed rate, but you choose to live in a 2 bed, you pay the shortfall yourself and always have? After all, why should you get money for a 3 bed house when you were married and had kids at home, but now are divorced and kids grown up, your benefit would surely drop

Jowo_2

Marisco wrote: »

Just out of curiosity, does this new "bed rate" only apply to new applicants, or will it effect those already "in the system"? What I mean is, if you already have a one or two bed flat, and have been there for quite a while, will the HB go down to a "room rate" IYSWIM? If so, it seems very unfair on those who have a flat already, as it means they'll have to make the shortfall up themselves or move!!! This seems very harsh, especially if they have been there for years!!! Or have I got it all wrong?:o

I think it applies to all, including those currently in 1 bedroom properties who will have to move into house shares.

It's not harsh, according to supporters of the policy, as the HB bill has almost doubled over the last decade.

From their perspective, it's unfortunate that those on benefits can enjoy a self contained property in many areas where those in employment are forced to share until there earnings are significant.

Also, if a person in employment loses their job and has a self-contained property, they too will also have to consider downsizing to a cheaper property if their LHA doesn't cover it. From that argument, why should a benefit claimant be cushioned from economic reality and be complete insulated from the spending cuts or changes in income experienced by those in employment.

Marisco

Thanks Intra, but that is not actually what I meant. I've been reading the threads, and it seems that some will have to move into a room/share as the HB won't be paid on a flat. Unless I'm totally misunderstanding!! Not been in the "system" for donkeys, so not well up on benefits etc:o

intranicity

Single people will only get shared rate from now on unless they are over 35

Marisco

Thanks Jomo, that's exactly what I meant:) Personally, I think it is harsh, especially if you have lived in your flat for a long time - and especially if your not in the "first flush of youth";) Do they give you a bit of time to get another job, or are you chucked out straight away? I'm thinking of someone who has worked, got a flat, lived there for years, then made redundant. House shares are fine for young people, but when I first got a flat (after marriage breakdown) I was 42, I would have hated to share with anyone!!!!:eek:

Marisco

Ahhh, so there is an age limit. (Sorry, everyone types faster than me!!!!!:o)