What is Local Housing Allowance (LHA)?

Local Housing Allowance (LHA) is the amount of Housing Benefit you can get if you rent your home from a private landlord.

There is a maximum amount available, depending on where you live, and the amount you receive can change when the rates are reviewed in April each year.

The level of Local Housing Allowance that can be paid is based on the lowest rent in your area, the number of bedrooms considered appropriate for your household (which might not be the same as the number of bedrooms in home) and whether you have any adults living with you.

Find out current Local Housing Allowance Rates

Local Housing Allowance only applies to those renting from private landlords. You will not be affected if you:

• live in a property owned by a registered social landlord
• live in supported housing, where your landlord is a charitable or voluntary group who also provides you with support or supervision
• started your tenancy before 15 January 1989
• live in a houseboat, caravan or hostel
• pay for board and lodging with a substantial part of the rent
• have a shared ownership of the property.