New national scheme forces changes in benefits and entitlement

Local Housing Allowance, which is paid to people on low income in private accommodation, is changing from 7 April as part of the introduction of a national scheme.

The key changes are:

• Local Housing Allowance rates will be based on the number of bedrooms a family needs. For example, a couple with two children aged under ten will normally be entitled to a rate for a two bedroom dwelling
• Local Housing Allowance rates will be the same across Edinburgh which will make processing claims simpler
• If the Local Housing Allowance rate you are entitled to is more than your weekly rent, you keep a maximum of £15 per week of the difference.

For example, if you currently receive a Local Housing Allowance of £125 per week and your rent is £100, you would get an allowance of £115 under the new scheme.

This is to ensure Local Housing Allowance does not become a disincentive for people moving into work.

There is a period of payment protection for existing claimants. If the changes mean your new Local Housing Allowance rate is less than the amount you currently receive, you will continue to receive the same amount of money for one year.

If you break your claim, change address or have a change in circumstance between 7 April 2008 and 6 April 2009, you lose your entitlement protection and your Local Housing Allowance will be calculated under the new rules.

If you have any queries about these changes contact Revenues and Benefits on 0131 469 5000, e-mail: revenuesbenefits@edinburgh.gov.uk or come in and see us at Revenue and Benefits, 249 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1YJ. Opening hours: 8.30am-4.30pm Mon, Wed, Thurs; 10am-4.30pm Tues; 8.30am-3pm Friday.