housing benefit

tonto_7

Can you claim housing benefit for a relative who lives in a
seperate house owned by myself?

msmicawber

You can't claim housing benefit for them, but they can claim on their own behalf. I gather that it is OK for relatives to rent to each other and the tenant to claim housing benefit as long as it is done on a genuine commercial basis - i.e. you treat your relative as though they were any other tenant. Have a look on your Council's web site as there's probably some detail there, alternatively ring them. Provided you're both up front about your relationship, there shouldn't be a problem.

tonto_7

Thanks msmicawber appreciate your advice.

mitchaa

I thought it was only if you drew up legal contracts etc.

I.e there is no way you could let your unemployed brother stay in your home and then for him to claim HB just to give to you so you financially gain.

You would be able to if you drew up contracts though and legitimate tenant agreements. You would also be liable for taxation on that, go SE and you would need to tell your mortgage lender so it can be switched over to a BTL.

paisley_lass

mitchaa wrote: »

I thought it was only if you drew up legal contracts etc.

I.e there is no way you could let your unemployed brother stay in your home and then for him to claim HB just to give to you so you financially gain.

You would be able to if you drew up contracts though and legitimate tenant agreements. You would also be liable for taxation on that, go SE and you would need to tell your mortgage lender so it can be switched over to a BTL.

i think that is correct there must be legal contracts.