Housing Benefit / LHA Checker
How it works
For private renters, help with rent is capped at the Local Housing Allowance for your area and the bedrooms you're entitled to. Single people under 35 are usually limited to the Shared Accommodation Rate.
For social tenants, your full eligible rent is covered, but working-age claimants face the 'bedroom tax' (14% reduction for 1 spare room, 25% for 2+).
Worked example
Aisha is 28, single, renting a 1-bed in Manchester for £900/month. On UC.
- LHA 1-bed Manchester ~£725/month
- Housing element of UC: £725
- £175/month shortfall to cover from earnings
Who should use this
- •Private renters on low income
- •Pension-age renters (still claim HB directly)
- •Tenants in supported or temporary accommodation
- •Working-age UC claimants checking their housing element
Common mistakes
- ×Assuming HB is open to working-age — most must claim UC instead
- ×Not knowing LHA is capped — your full rent may not be covered
- ×Forgetting the bedroom tax in social housing
- ×Single under-35s expecting more than the shared room rate
Frequently asked questions
Can I still claim Housing Benefit?▾
Only if you're State Pension age, in supported/temporary accommodation, or already on legacy benefits with HB.
What is LHA?▾
Local Housing Allowance — the maximum housing support for private renters, set per Broad Rental Market Area and bedroom entitlement.
What is the bedroom tax?▾
A 14%/25% reduction in housing support for working-age social tenants with 1 or 2+ spare bedrooms.
Why is my single LHA so low?▾
Single people under 35 without children get only the Shared Accommodation Rate unless they qualify for an exemption (e.g. ex-offender, severe disability, care leaver).
Can I get Discretionary Housing Payment?▾
Yes — apply to your council if there's a shortfall between your housing element and rent.