We use Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rates to work out Housing Benefit for tenants who rent privately. How much you get is usually based on:

  • who lives with you
  • the size of your property
  • the area you live in
  • what money you have coming in
  • what savings you have.

LHA does not depend on how much rent you pay, but on the LHA rates for the area you live in.

Calculate your LHA using Directgov's LHA bedroom calculator

How payments are made

LHA will usually be paid directly to you and no longer made straight to the landlord. The payments will be made into your bank account or by cheque.

This means it’s your responsibility to make sure that rent is paid on time.