HB and LHA

Iamanae

I have been on HB for a few years. I work but dont earn much. I have just found out the HB rate is £30 a week lower than the LHA rate. I asked my council to swap but they said no. They said I would have to stop my claim. They didnt say how long for. Is one week long enough.

skater_kat

do you live in private rented accommodation, or housing association/council?

jonliv

Yes one week is enough

My LA actually advised me to stop my claim for HB and a week later claim LHA instantly @ £32 per week better off


This was on the advise of LA

Iamanae

Private rented.

Thank you jonliv, i shall do that if the LA recommend it

skater_kat

sounds like a shrewd move

jonliv

Yes I am in a private rental I did this when housing help changed to Local Housing Allowance must have been more than 2 years ago!

Sadly they will not back-date it for you but the sooner you do this the less benefit you will lose out on

silvercar

Remember that you will not get any HB or LHA for the week you are not claiming. You may also want to check how quickly they would process the new claim.

Another point is that LHA rates were reduced October 2011, so check that the new rates are better than HB. They are also forecast to reduce in 2013 and in 2012 the under 35 age group will have some change. More info here:

http://england.shelter.org.uk/get_advice/paying_for_a_home/housing_benefit_and_local_housing_allowance/future_changes_to_local_housing_allowance#3