Housing Benefit and Service Charge

dmg24

I have searched high and low and do not seem to be able to find an answer ...

I own my property (I have a mortgage), so am not entitled to Housing Benefit in that respect. However, would I be entitled to anything towards my Service Charge?

I fear I know the answer, but no harm in asking.

Thanks in advance x

Morglin

It doesn't seem that you can:


http://www.opsi.gov.uk/SI/si1987/Uksi_19871971_en_22.htm

http://www.help.entitledto.co.uk/servicecharges.aspx?sid=1


Give SHELTER a ring - they are excellent, and will know the answer:

http://england.shelter.org.uk/advice/index.cfm

Lin

NCS_2

Sorry but you definitely can not claim any Housing Benefit - I know because I was a HB Team Leader in a previous stressful life!

dmg24

Thanks Morglin and NCS,

It seems I am in the trap of rent and get everything paid for, or get a mortgage and get nothing (I won't get ISMI for the next ten months). Nevermind, something will come up! x

cattie

Yes you can claim towards your service charge and your ground rent too incidentally, & if you submit the statements & invoices for service charge to the income support department that pay your mortgage interest, they will calculate the monthly cost payable & add it to your qualifing amount. I hope this has cheered you up.

dmg24

Thanks cattie,

That is great news!

Have emailed my LHA for an application form. Will be a massive weight off my mind if they can help! x