Changes to Housing Benefit for private tenants
From 7 April 2008, Local Housing Allowance (LHA) will replace Housing Benefit for those renting from private landlords and who are currently on a low income or in receipt of benefits.
What is LHA?
LHA is help with the cost of rent and affects private
tenants who:
- Move into private rented accommodation on or after 7 April 2008
- Make a new claim for Housing Benefit on or after 7 April 2008
- Have a break of at least a week, in Housing Benefit.
When do existing Housing Benefit rules still apply?
Current Housing Benefit rules will still apply to you if
you fall under the following categories:
- Your tenancy started before 1989
- You rent from a Registered Social Landlord
(Housing Association) - You rent from South Tyneside Homes
- You live in supported housing provided by certain
landlords or charities - You live in a caravan, houseboat or hostel
- Your tenancy includes an amount of board.
How is LHA worked out?
The amount that you're entitled to depends on:
- The area you live in
- Who lives with you
- The number of bedrooms you and your family need
- Any savings or money you may have coming in.
How is LHA paid and how long does it last?
LHA is usually paid to you and not to your landlord. However, we will pay your landlord directly under special circumstances. Once your LHA has been calculated, it will last for one year unless your circumstances change and a review is needed.
Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rates
| Number of bedrooms | Local Housing Allowance weekly amount for Tyneside |
| Shared accommodation | £55.00 |
| 1 bedroom | £88.85 |
| 2 bedrooms | £103.85 |
| 3 bedrooms | £120.00 |
| 4 bedrooms | £165.00 |
| 5 bedrooms | £200.08 |
There are different rates for properties in Sunderland. If your postcode appears in the list below please contact the benefits team so we can confirm your exact location.
- NE34 7AF
- NE36 0AW
- NE36 0BD
- SR6 7NN
- SR6 7NP
- SR6 7RF
More information
For more information on LHA and how to apply contact the benefits team:
Call: 0191 424 4333
Email: benefits@southtyneside.gov.uk