Local Housing Allowance and benefits

Rents vary greatly depending on the type of property and its location. If you are on low income, you may be able to claim housing benefit or the housing element of universal credit to help you pay your rent.

About the Local Housing Allowance (LHA)

The LHA is the maximum housing benefit contribution you might receive towards your housing costs. The LHA rate will depend on the size of the property you need and the area postcode.

You are strongly advised to check that a property is affordable before you arrange a viewing. If a property is too expensive based on the LHA figure, you should look for something cheaper.

Housing Benefit

Housing Benefit helps people with a lower income pay their rent. You will not usually receive Housing Benefit if you have high savings, live with a close relative, are a full-time student or would not qualify due to immigration or residence status.

Apply for Housing Benefit in the borough (area) you are moving to. Please make sure you find out how to apply as each borough varies.

Single people under the age of 35, may only be eligible to receive housing benefit to cover the average cost of a room in a shared property (exemptions apply).

For more information see housing benefits or go to our make a claim page. You will need to register through our benefits online service.

Universal Credit

Universal Credit is a payment to help with your living costs. It replaces certain benefits (such as JSA, Income Support, Working Tax Credit and Housing Benefit). It is a single monthly payment which you can apply for if you’re on a low income or out of work. 

You can apply for Universal Credit online. For further information see JobCentreplus (0800 055 6688).