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Local housing allowance

Renting in the private sector is often more expensive than if you are a tenant in a council or housing association home. If you are receiving benefits of some kind or are on a low income, you may be entitled to housing benefit, known as Local Housing Allowance.

Local housing allowance is for tenants renting accommodation from a private landlord. It also affects tenants already getting housing benefits who move into accommodation rented from a private landlord.

Local Housing Allowance (or LHA) is calculated on market rates for the area you live in, the number of people in your household and the size of the property you will be renting. You can view the current rates for your area and calculate how many bedrooms you are entitled to at the rent service website.

You will need to have a bank account in order to receive your payments. It is then up to you to pay your landlord. Setting up a direct debit or standing order is a good way to do this as you could be evicted from your home if you build up any rent arrears.