How is housing benefit actually paid?

TORTURED

I'm not looking for any help with the claiming process, but have some questions.

How is housing benefit paid?

If someone wanted to claim for a 1 bedroom flat (for example), would they tell the landlord ahead of time?

Does the money go straight to the landlord?

Or do you get the money in a special account?

If you wanted to be in an available flat within a month, you'd apply for housing benefit, (and as long as you're eligible), then what? Do you need to wait for letters or calls or what?

I've looked about but I'm finding it hard to see what the actual process is.

Thanks for reading, if you did.

allen35

If awarded HB it would go into your bank account unless you had circumstances that you would find it hard managing your finances.

If it's a Housing Association property you can choose to pay the Landlord.

Housing Benefit is usually paid 4 weeks in arrears.

You can make a claim before moving in but you wouldn't receive any help until you've actually moved in and then would be paid as stated 4 weeks in arrears depending on the time of month your local Authority pay, for example if you moved in on the 1st you may get a payment on the 15th which is the 4 weekly cycle and thereafter every 4 weeks.

If your Landlord is aware you are claiming HB, he should understand how the payment scheme works and be understanding of your position.

jacques_chirac

allen35 wrote: »

If your Landlord is aware you are claiming HB, he should understand how the payment scheme works and be understanding of your position.

I'm not entirely sure what you mean by this, but to clarify, a benefit claimant will be expected to pay their rent on time, just as any other tenant would. Hence, as well as needing a month's rent in advance and a deposit, they should also have sufficient to cover their first payment, in case their HB award is not sorted in time.

TORTURED

Thanks for the great and concise answers.

Caz3121

Note though, if you are under 35 you would qualify for the shared accommodation rate unless you receive middle or high rate DLA
This is unlikely to cover the rent for a one bedroom flat