Universal Credit: renting under 35 but disabled: shared accom or studio?

laffytaffy99

So I don't know what to do.

I'm self employed and have recently been contracted by a head office with great opportunities (and the possibility of becoming an employee next year) . I can only work part time at the moment due to my health and I'll be on a low income so eligible for Universal Credits (I'm actually quite stupid for not claiming working tax credits last year - I had too much pride and thought I could cope on my earnings living with my parents and now I'm eligible for a lot less under UC).

I need to move closer to where the work is (I will then be able to do more hours as less energy will be spent on travelling) and rent in the private sector in London.

However, I have been struggling to find anything suitable (due to having the disability). Also, there is absolutely nothing within the benefit rate I would be getting for the housing component unless I shared a room with another adult/ one of these disgusting 'female company wanted for reduced rent' adds. I've made my peace with topping it up. However, I get the standard rate of PIP I was wondering if this meant I would get the one bedroom rate and could look at studios (therefore, opening up more options).

Also, could I get the one bedroom rate and live in shared accommodation (I could then live in more expensive shared accommodation which would more likely be suitable for me e.g ground floor or lift access flat)?

Thanks in advance

calcotti

Is it the Daily Living part of PIP you are getting and does anyone get Carer's Allowance for looking after you? If the answers are yes and no respectively then you will be entitled to the one bedroom rate even if living in shared accommodation.

https://england.shelter.org.uk/housing_advice/housing_benefit/shared_accommodation_rate_for_under_35s

You may have to tell the local authority benefits team this as not everyone employed in the benefits teams will pick this up.

laffytaffy99

I will be moving in with friends (if that works out) or strangers and no-one will be claiming carers allowance

calcotti

laffytaffy99 wrote: »

I will be moving in with friends (if that works out) or strangers and no-one will be claiming carers allowance

One bedroom rate it is then.

System

calcotti wrote: »

Is it the Daily Living part of PIP you are getting and does anyone get Carer's Allowance for looking after you? If the answers are yes and no respectively then you will be entitled to the one bedroom rate even if living in shared accommodation.

https://england.shelter.org.uk/housing_advice/housing_benefit/shared_accommodation_rate_for_under_35s

You may have to tell the local authority benefits team this as not everyone employed in the benefits teams will pick this up.

Christ i wish i'd know this a few years back! Wouldn't be stuck in this godawful houseshare! Though i think a few years ago you had to be on higher rate dla to qualify, glad to see its changed in line with PIP.