Housing benefit changes

Changes to the way housing benefit is calculated for people who rent from a private landlord, were introduced in April 2011.

The change in calculation means lower rates of housing benefits, so that 3 in 10 properties will be affordable to people receiving housing benefit rather than the current level of 5 in 10 houses
If you currently receive an excess payment of housing benefit (up to £15 per week more than your rent) this will stop when your benefit award is reviewed
If you rent a property with more than 4 bedrooms the amount of housing benefit you receive will be further reduced. This is because housing benefit will be restricted to the rate for a 4 bedroom property

Single applicants under the age of 35

From January 2012, housing benefit for single customers under the age of 35 will be restricted to the shared room rate of local housing allowance. This means that most single customers under the age of 35 will have their housing benefit reduced. This change will take effect when we next review your claim after January 2012.

We will be writing to everyone affected by this change shortly to provide further information.

Overnight carers

If you or your partner are disabled and have an additional bedroom where your carer stays overnight the amount of housing benefit you receive could increase.

This is because a room for your carer, (provided they are not your partner), can be taken into consideration when your housing benefit rate is decided.

If you think this applies to you please let us know:

Complete a change in circumstances form online
Call 01993 861030

When will these changes happen?

With the exception of non-dependant deductions and overnight carers allowance, the changes will only immediately affect new customers or customers who have a change in their circumstances meaning they are entitled to fewer bedrooms.

If you were claiming housing benefit before 1 April 2011, and your circumstances don't change, you will continue to receive housing benefit based on your current rate of local housing allowance calculated before 1 April 2011. The changes will affect you nine months after your next annual review.

Please be aware that if you have a change of circumstances after 1 April 2011 it may mean that the changes will affect you sooner. You may want to seek advice before you sign a new tenancy agreement.