Benefits Conundrum!

Bemused999

Hello

I wondered if anyone would be able to help?

Basically I split with my hubby two years ago, and when I did I moved out of our marital home into rental accomodation where I am now.

Moving forward two years and I have now been made redundant. I'm getting a small payoff which should last me a couple of months, but when that is exhausted I don't have any other savings or assets.

However, I understand that because I still own my old home, this will torpedo any hope I have of claiming JSA/Housing Benefit, even though I am not reciving any rent or other income from it (or anywhere else).

Is this correct and, if so, is there any way round it?

Thanks in advance for your help.

B

staffie1

If you still own your own home, can you not sell it..?

Oldernotwiser

As long as you've paid the appropriate NICs, you can claim contributions based JSA for 6 months, regardless of capital/savings/property.

Bemused999

Thanks for replying.

I could sell it, but my husband may not want to!!!!!

Thanks for the re-assurance regarding JSA, but presumably there is no similar provision for housing benefit?

B

terryw

Housing benefit is means-tested and one of the questions asks about assets. Property is specifically mentioned.

Dognobs

Best to sell, If you are paying towards the house and your ex is living in it you are entilted to rent. If you have struck a deal that you still jointly own the property but he pays the mortage in leu of rent get this sorted with a solictor now, and get it in writing It is then a busness deal, also makes life easy in the future when you do sell.

staffie1

Bemused999 wrote: »

Thanks for replying.

I could sell it, but my husband may not want to!!!!!

I can understand that, but if it's yours or you own a share, and you've split up, and you need the money to live on, let him make his own arrangements!

dseventy

Bemused999 wrote: »

Thanks for replying.

I could sell it, but my husband may not want to!!!!!

Thanks for the re-assurance regarding JSA, but presumably there is no similar provision for housing benefit?

B

If he does not want to sell it the property thats fine, but he must pay you your half off so he controls the property.

If you want to sell, and he won't, you need to see a solicitor to force it. It will cost money, but at least you will get your share.

D70