Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Local Housing Allowance?
Local Housing Allowance (LHA) is the name given to the way Housing Benefit is calculated for most people who rent from a private landlord. LHA is based on the number of rooms people are allowed and not solely upon the rent paid. The number of rooms allowed depends on who lives with the tenant.
The figure used for rent in your Housing Benefit calculation depends on:
- the area you live in
- the LHA rate for that area
- the number of bedrooms your household needs, and
- the actual rent you pay.
For more information, see the Local Housing Allowance pages.

