Local Housing Allowance (LHA)

LHA isn't a benefit you apply for. It's the rule that sets the maximum amount of help with rent that private renters can get through Universal Credit or Housing Benefit. If you rent from a private landlord and are on a low income, LHA is the number that decides how much of your rent gets covered.

How much is it?

There isn't one rate. It depends on where you live and how many bedrooms you're allowed:

• Every area (called a Broad Rental Market Area) has its own set of weekly rates.
• Rates are set for shared accommodation, 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedrooms (nothing higher, so a 5-bed home gets the 4-bed rate).
• Rates for 2026/27 are frozen at April 2024 levels, so they haven't gone up this year even though rents have.
• Rates are meant to cover the cheapest 30% of local rents, but because they've been frozen, many areas now fall short.

How to find your rate: search for "LHA rate finder" on GOV.UK, and enter your postcode and number of bedrooms. It only takes a minute, and it's worth checking before you agree to a tenancy.

How many bedrooms are you allowed?

• One bedroom each for a couple, a single adult aged 16 or over, or two children of the same sex under 16, or any two children under 10.
• An extra room if a carer stays overnight, and in some cases for disabled children who can't share.
• Under 35 and single with no children? You'll normally only get the shared accommodation rate, which is lower. There are exceptions, for example care leavers, people who've lived in a homeless hostel for 3 months, and some disabled people.

Good things to know:

• LHA is a cap, not a guarantee. If your rent is higher than the LHA rate, you'll have to cover the difference yourself.
• If your rent is lower than the LHA rate, you'll only get help up to your actual rent.
• It only applies to private tenants. Social housing tenants, such as those renting from a council or housing association, are covered differently.
• If there's a gap between your rent and what you're paid, ask your council about a Discretionary Housing Payment. It's not guaranteed, but it can make a big difference.
• Tell your council or the DWP if your rent or household changes, as your help may change too.
• It's worth checking the rates before signing a tenancy, so you know how big any shortfall might be.
• The government may announce changes in the Autumn Budget, so keep an eye on the news. We'll shout about it on the forum if anything changes.

Where to start: use the LHA finder on GOV.UK, then ask your council or Citizens Advice for help working out what you'd get. Shelter has a free helpline and a great benefits calculator too.

Rates are correct for 2026/27, but always double-check on GOV.UK. England, Scotland and Wales use LHA, and Northern Ireland has its own LHA rates, which you can find through the NI Housing Executive.

If the gap between your rent and your help is causing you worry, please come and chat on the forum. You're definitely not alone.