Housing allowance- single mum

[username3918]

Hello, I am entitled to the 2 bed allowance under my local council. However, I have found a lovely 1 bed that I would like to move into.
My query is: would I still receive the 2 bed allowance rate if I wanted to take the 1 bed? or will I only receive the 1 bed allowance if I choose to live in a 1 bed?
I have contacted the council but waiting to hear back, just wondering if any knows how it works because I dont have a clue!

Hello
Yes it does mean your allowance is the 2 bed LHA rate but they don't pay more in HB or UC than your actual rent.

Just to add it means you'll get the 2 bed allowance in your calculation but your actual rent will be included instead if it's less than the 2 need LHA rate, which presumably it is. It can be beneficial if the 1 bed property is more than the 1 bed LHA rate

Thankyou for clarifying. Thats great news tbh, because yes the 1 bed that I really like is over the 1 bed LHA but slightly under the 2 bed LHA.

No problem.

I work for an advice charity and we see this a lot, don't forget there is still the benefit cap to think of

Since you're here, would you mind explaining the benefit cap? Does it affect housing allowance in any way.

Yes the benefit cap does affect the overall amount of benefits received.

It depends on what area you live and which benefits you are on, if you are exempt from the cap through disability or working etc

How about stop being so selfish and getting a two bedroom property so you dc has a room for themselves. How many threads are on here of single parents being over crowded and desperate for a bigger place for their children to have their own room. Just think of that before you get a one bedroom property because you like it think about your dc

It's not that easy, 2 bedroom properties may be too expensive

Thanks for explaining that. I've had a look online and I don't think it applies to me, bcos I am working part time.

I'm not being selfish. I only plan on living there for 1 year so me and the baby can share the room. Thanks for your concern but a 1 bed is a better option for me right now.

Op I should not have said you were selfish and I apologise.