Benefits FAQs
Click a question to reveal the answer.
Q: How long does a claim take to process?
Q: From what date will my benefit be paid?
Q: Can I claim Housing Benefit if I work?
Q: I am self-employed - what information do I need to provide?
Q: What is Local Housing Allowance?
Q: What LHA Category/Bedroom Rate do I qualify for?
Q: I am a joint tenant. How will this affect the LHA I receive?
Q: Why do I have an overpayment?
Q: How will the overpayment be recovered/paid back?
Q: I might be starting work - how this will affect my benefits?
Q: Can my landlord be paid my Housing Benefit?
Under Local Housing Allowance rules, in most cases where you rent from a private landlord we will pay your Housing Benefit direct into your bank or building society account.
However, we can pay benefit direct to your landlord if you will have difficulty managing your money and making payments to your landlord. You must tell us why you think you will have difficulties and based on this the council will decide whether to pay you or your landlord. If possible you should supply evidence to support your request, such as a letter from a support worker or someone helping you with your difficulties.
If you rent out your property, see Information for Landlords for more on this topic.
An extension to the safeguard provisions that will allow a Local Authority to make payments direct to Landlords, where it considers it will assist the customer to secure a new tenancy or retain an existing tenancy.
Q: How do my savings or capital affect my benefit?
Q: Why has my entitlement decreased when I have had no change in income or rent?
Q: I receive Housing Benefit but cannot pay my full rent. Can I get any other help?
Q: What is a non-dependant deduction?
Q: I think you have calculated my benefit incorrectly?
Q: When will the April 2011 LHA changes affect me?
Q: What is a Shared Accommodation Rate?
