UC Housing Element when rent paid 6 months in advance

PoorPennilessMe

Hi Everyone. I've tried google and the forums, but I can't find the advice I need.

I receive some Universal credit most months, and through no fault of my own, am having to move suddenly.

Because of my lack of finances, I am struggling to find a Landlord that will accepy me without a Guarantor (which I have so that's not an issue), but many are also asking for 6 months payments up front in addition to this.

My Guarantor (who is also my Father) has agreed to lend me the money for 6 months in advance if needed, but my question is this: If I paid the 6 months in advnace, would I still get the UC housing element for any months I qualify in that initial 6 month period if rent is paid in a lump sum? I will need to pay my Father back after all!

Thanks for your insights everyone!

poppy12345

Paying your rent in advance will make no difference to your housing element of UC. Check here to see how much you're entitled to based on your circumstances. https://lha-direct.voa.gov.uk/

calcotti

The housing element is calculated based on your liability. As poppy says, discharging your liability early makes no difference.

huckster

Just making the obvious point, that Housing is only one part of a UC award before any deductions are applied. The net UC award will be affected by any employment earnings and any Government debt deduction that may be relevant.  

Suggest that you use a Benefits Calculator to check roughly how much UC monthly awards are likely to be.
https://www.gov.uk/benefits-calculators

PoorPennilessMe

That's brilliant, and s=answers my queries perfectly! Very reassuring thank you. :-)