Housing Benefit

[2mummybear]

Very technical question about housing benefit. I want to see if I am still able to claim housing benefit instead of Universal Credit, as I would be much worse off under UC.

I am well aware nearly all new applications for help with housing costs would result in an application for Universal Credit. However, there are two exceptions; for applicants over 60 and those entitled to the severe disability premium.

I am a single mum to two young DC, I work. I claim working tax credits, disability tax credits (for myself) child tax credits and PIP at standard rate for care. My PIP award is due to be looked at soon and I would expect it to be increased to the enhanced rate for care as my health has deteriorated badly since my last award. If my PIP was increased would I then be able to apply for housing benefit? As I would be entitled to the severe disability premium in tax credits.

All help appreciated.

Hi OP,
Unfortunately the Severe Disability Element you would get on tax credits is not the same as the Severe Disability Premium (SDP) you get with other benefits. To get the SDP you would already have to be claiming a means-tested benefit such as income-based ESA or Housing Benefit. If your PIP award is changed from the standard rate to the higher rate, you would get more tax credits, but you still wouldn't be able to make a new claim for Housing Benefit. Sorry.

You'll make a claim for HB to your Council, but they'll almost immediately tell you that you can't and that you'd need to apply for help with your rent through the "Housing Costs" element of a Universal Credit claim. Given that these claims are now being processed (essentially) exclusively online, ie facelessly, expect it to be a UC application you need and bite the bullet and go for it.

@AnotherEmma thank you for taking the time to reply. Yes I feared that may be the case.