What does LHA mean in HOUSING & AMENITIES

How Does it Work?

The amount of LHA available to an individual or family can differ based on geographic location; for instance, people living in some areas will be able to access more funding than those elsewhere. The DWP sets maximum rates for landlords within each area so that everyone who qualifies for LHA will receive an equitable amount regardless of where they live. People are responsible for paying any rental fees above the LHA rate themselves, unless they qualify for additional benefits like Universal Credit or Discretionary Housing Payment.

The Local Housing Allowance also covers some shared accommodation costs if an individual is living in a house-share with other people. This includes expenses like fuel bills and council tax payments which are shared between all tenants living in the property. In order to access this money, it’s important that everyone living in the house registers with the relevant local authority as soon as possible when moving into a new home so that everyone's details can be updated on the system accurately.

Eligibility

In order to claim LHA you must be over 16 years old and have a legal right to reside in the UK either through citizenship or immigration status. You must also have made a valid claim; most claimants do this by visiting their local Jobcentre Plus office and filling out an application form online or through post/fax. Your eligibility is then assessed according to certain criteria such as your age, nationality/immigration status, whether you’re working full-time or part-time etc.. You may also have to prove your identity by providing certain documents like passports or birth certificates when making an application for benefits such as these if requested by Jobcentre Plus staff member during processing of claim forms.