Housing Benefit for private tenants

Local Housing Allowance

Local Housing Allowance is how we work out the maximum amount of Housing Benefit you can receive. This only applies to people on a low income who live in a privately rented home.

The rate that applies depends on the area you live in and the number of bedrooms you need. The actual amount of Housing Benefit payable depends on your income and household circumstances.

If you claimed Housing Benefit before 7 April 2008 and you have not changed address or had a break in your claim since that date, this does not apply to you.

• Guide for Local Housing Allowance claimants
• Current Local Housing Allowance rates (from 1 April 2023)
• Previous Local Housing Allowance rates
• Our safeguard policy
• Safeguard referral form (Application for payment of Housing Benefit direct to landlord)