JSA - Unemployed 'couple' living together.

Dunroamin

vise wrote: »

Thanks for that interesting advice...

a question for my current landlord:
She is private, and probably unknown to the govt. Im wondering if raising awareness that we are paying her rent will cause her trouble and grief?

It may well bring HMRC into her life but that's a chance you'll have to take if you want to claim.

coffeelover65

vise wrote: »

Thanks for that interesting advice...

a question for my current landlord:
She is private, and probably unknown to the govt. Im wondering if raising awareness that we are paying her rent will cause her trouble and grief?

Sounds like its the usual buy to let landlord of trick of renting out properties but failing to inform HMRC so they don't pay any tax on their profits. You can make reports to HMRC anonymously about people doing things like this.

From a HB perspective its likely you'll be asked for a tenancy agreement based on the HB departments verification processes. Still submit your claim even if you don't have this now, you can send it in later.

vise

coffeelover65 wrote: »

Sounds like its the usual buy to let landlord of trick of renting out properties but failing to inform HMRC so they don't pay any tax on their profits. You can make reports to HMRC anonymously about people doing things like this.

From a HB perspective its likely you'll be asked for a tenancy agreement based on the HB departments verification processes. Still submit your claim even if you don't have this now, you can send it in later.

Im in a real dilemma here. Am I finding myself in such a position that I must report my landlady...?

I only really know her by her first name. She breaks a few rules regarding tennancy laws (ie turning up whenever she wishes, charges us for maintenance etc).

So I contact the HB regarding our joint condition residing at her address?

RAS

Do you live in Scotland?

What sort of house/flat is the room in?

Do you have any sort of written rental agreement? If not, then by law no rent is due until such time as the LL provides an address for the serving of notices.

If you are able to get on the internet (as you must be), check the Land Registry if possible. Costs £4.

Go to the main library and check the electoral roll?

missapril75

vise wrote: »

Im in a real dilemma here. Am I finding myself in such a position that I must report my landlady...?

I only really know her by her first name. She breaks a few rules regarding tennancy laws (ie turning up whenever she wishes, charges us for maintenance etc).

So I contact the HB regarding our joint condition residing at her address?

You're not reporting her, you're just applying for Housing Benefit based on your circumstances and income as a couple. It's normal that some proof of rent is provided.

Anyone with a tenancy agreement or rent book (effectively receipts) with sufficient information can apply for and receive HB without a landlord ever knowing.