Special rules for under 25s (changing to under 35s from January 2012)
Shared Accommodation Rate (previously called the Single Room Rent)
There is a limit on how much housing benefit we can pay to single people under the age of 25 who live in private rented accommodation. Your housing benefit is limited to the "market rent" payable for a single room with shared use of kitchen and bathroom. This limit was known as the Single Room Rent, but is now called the Shared Accommodation Rate.
(The market rent is the general level of rents for a single room with shared facilities. It is set by the Rent Officer who is independent of the council.)
In effect, if you are single and under 25 years old and live in private self-contained accommodation, housing benefit may not cover all your rent. If so, you will have to pay the difference out of your own income.
When the Single Room Rent does not apply
There are some cases where this limit does not apply:
- if you live in council or some housing association properties
- if you have a child or children living with you
- if you have recently left care
- if you have a disability in some cases.
Changes from January 2012
Increase in age limit to 35 years
From January 2012 onwards, single people under 35 currently receiving housing benefit will be limited to the shared accommodation rate from the date of the anniversary of their claim.
This means that after the date of your anniversary, we will not be able to pay more than the shared accommodation rate, even if you live in a larger property and your actual rent is higher. Instead, you will have to make up the shortfall yourself or move to lower priced accommodation.
Need more help?
If you cannot afford to pay the extra amount for your rent, you may be able to get extra help for a limited period. This is called a Discretionary Housing Payment. It depends on your circumstances and is not automatic.
» More about Discretionary Housing Payments
Contact us
Please contact the Revenues and Benefits Service if you have any queries.
